Intelligent Energy launches 120kW hydrogen drone powertrain after record UAV order
UK hydrogen fuel cell specialist Intelligent Energy has unveiled a new 120kW hydrogen fuel cell power system for heavy-lift fixed-wing drones, alongside securing its largest commercial order to date for uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) propulsion technology.
Announced on 15 July 2026, the twin milestones highlight growing commercial demand for hydrogen-powered drones capable of flying longer distances, carrying heavier payloads and outperforming battery-powered aircraft in endurance-critical missions.
The new system, named IE-FLIGHT™ 120, has been designed for the rapidly expanding market for fixed-wing UAVs carrying payloads between 150kg and 750kg. The powertrain targets applications including defence, surveillance, security and logistics, where extended flight times and increased operational capability are becoming increasingly important.
Intelligent Energy said hydrogen fuel cells can keep drones airborne three to five times longer than battery-powered alternatives while producing only water vapour as an emission. The technology also offers lower noise levels, reduced vibration, less maintenance and a smaller thermal signature than internal combustion engines, making it particularly attractive for defence and security operations.
The launch comes as the UK Government increases its focus on advanced autonomous systems through its Defence Investment Plan, which includes a £5 billion commitment to drones and autonomous technologies to strengthen the country’s domestic defence capabilities and industrial base.
The company said the IE-FLIGHT™ 120 bridges the gap between its existing IE-SOAR™ fuel cell systems and the higher-power hydrogen technologies currently being developed for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and regional aviation.
Alongside the new product launch, Intelligent Energy confirmed it has secured a landmark commercial order for its IE-SOAR™ fuel cell systems, representing the largest order in the company’s history for hydrogen UAV propulsion technology. While financial details were not disclosed, the order reflects increasing confidence in hydrogen-powered aviation as operators seek greater range, endurance and payload capacity.
The announcement builds on the company’s recent investment in aviation fuel cell technology. Earlier this year, Intelligent Energy secured £17 million through the Aerospace Technology Institute-backed HEIGHTS programme to accelerate the development of high-power hydrogen fuel cell systems for future aircraft. The company has also opened a dedicated high-power fuel cell testing facility in Chelveston, Northamptonshire, to support the next phase of product development.
Greg Harris, Chief Commercial Officer at Intelligent Energy, said the UAV market is rapidly shifting towards larger aircraft that require longer flight times and greater carrying capacity.
“The UAV market is moving rapidly towards larger aircraft that need to fly further, carry heavier payloads and stay airborne for much longer. That’s where hydrogen fuel cells have a clear advantage,” he said.
“Our new fixed-wing power system demonstrates how our fuel cell technology can scale to an entirely new class of aircraft. It builds on the same platform we’re developing for larger aircraft and shows how hydrogen can unlock new capability across both the UAV and aerospace sectors.”
He added that the combination of the new product launch and the company’s record order demonstrates growing momentum behind hydrogen propulsion technology, with operators increasingly adopting fuel cells to improve endurance, payload capacity and overall mission performance.
The latest developments reinforce Intelligent Energy’s position as a leading supplier of hydrogen fuel cell technology for aviation and come as demand for long-range UAVs continues to accelerate across defence, commercial and industrial markets. Hydrogen-powered drones are increasingly seen as a key enabler of next-generation uncrewed aviation, offering a practical alternative to conventional battery systems for missions where range, endurance and operational efficiency are critical.
