BERLIN/STUTTGART (dpa-AFX) - Automaker Mercedes-Benz is looking to collaborate with drone start-up Tytan Technologies. The two companies signed a letter of intent on the sidelines of the International Aerospace Exhibition in Berlin. The partnership will focus on a drone defense system, for which the brand with the three-pointed star is expected to provide the carrier vehicles, according to a joint statement released in Berlin.
The planned cooperation centers on an anti-aircraft system dubbed 'Drone Defender'. A modified G-Class off-roader could serve as the platform for a vehicle-based drone defense and deployment system, while a customized Sprinter van could act as the base for a mobile drone carrier. The Bundeswehr already utilizes the G-Class platform for its wheeled vehicle known as the 'Wolf'. A spokeswoman did not provide details regarding a potential timeline or the scale of possible investments.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius recently expressed openness to expanding the carmaker's defense business. However, such a move must make 'economic sense', Källenius told the 'Wall Street Journal', according to the newspaper. 'The world has become more unpredictable, and I think it is absolutely clear that Europe must strengthen its defense profile', he said. 'Should we be able to play a positive role in that, we would be ready to do so.'/ols/DP/men
