TEKEVER, a pan-European technology company specializing in artificial intelligence-based autonomous systems, has signed a contract with the Portuguese Air Force to provide access to the autonomous capabilities of its AR5 system for surveillance missions.
The contract also includes operator training, along with the supply of a Ground Control Station and the ATLAS mission system.
The agreement represents a step toward strengthening the Portuguese Air Force’s operational capabilities and modernizing its air assets. Delivery of the systems and achievement of initial operational capability are scheduled for September.
The AR5 system will enable the Portuguese Air Force to increase its operational autonomy on long-range missions. The platforms will be deployed for maritime surveillance, security and defence missions, monitoring of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and support for public interest missions.
These missions will include support for the Special Rural Firefighting Unit (DECIR), coastal security and environmental protection.
To support autonomous and effective use of the new capability, TEKEVER will implement a comprehensive knowledge-transfer programme. Initial training for Air Force personnel will be completed by September alongside system delivery. A second phase of training will take place in October to consolidate operational readiness and develop additional skills among operational teams.
“The integration of the AR5 system represents a significant enhancement of the Portuguese Air Force’s operational capabilities. This platform meets current surveillance, security, and defense requirements, providing greater range, endurance, and operational flexibility. Its integration will strengthen the nation’s capacity to monitor the Exclusive Economic Zone and support a wide range of public interest missions, contributing to an Air Force that is better prepared to respond to present and future challenges,” said Tenente-Coronel Luís Henriques, Operational Coordinator of the Portuguese Air Force’s AR5 Working Group.
“This contract puts an autonomous capability developed and produced in Portugal to work in protecting our airspace and maritime territory. In addition to supplying the aircraft, we will cooperate with the Portuguese Air Force to consolidate and develop its own operational capability, which will strengthen national autonomy, readiness, and response capacity,” said Pedro Petiz, Director of Strategic Development at TEKEVER.
