Germany’s defense industry is working on the concept of operating UAVs from naval drones. Two German companies — drone manufacturer CiS and maritime defense solutions provider FLANQ — recently announced a strategic partnership to integrate UAVs with unmanned surface vessels, Defense Express reports.The decision followed earlier tests, when CiS’s Orka drone successfully launched from FLANQ’s naval drone. The aim of the project is to create a scalable, modular system that will deliver new capabilities in reconnaissance.According to CiS CEO Tom Kaufmann, Europe today faces a range of threats along its maritime borders, including “covert fleet sabotage.”“Through cooperation with FLANQ we will create a flexible, intelligent system that will enhance situational awareness and support decision-makers in maritime security,” Kaufmann said.It remains unclear whether the solution will be used solely for reconnaissance or adapted for other missions, including strikes. What is clear, however, is that Western industries have been moving rapidly on naval drone technologies.For example, Australia recently announced the purchase of secret Ghost Shark drones, investing more than $1 billion in naval drone programs.Such decisions are often prompted by lessons from the war in Ukraine — it was Ukraine’s Defense Forces that first began actively using naval drones, along with various modifications, including versions adapted to launch FPV drones or equipped with other weaponry.As for the German system, CiS positions its Orka UAV as a new-generation tactical drone capable of operating “even in extreme weather conditions.” The drone has a flight time of up to 75 minutes, a payload capacity of 5 kg, and a modular design allowing different configurations based on customer needs.It is also compatible with situational awareness systems such as MESE and CATL, with an option to operate via fiber optic cable at altitudes of up to 120 meters.