German aircraft engine manufacturer MTU Aero Engines has acquired Cologne-based AeroDesignWorks GmbH, expanding its portfolio to include propulsion systems for unmanned aerial vehicles and guided missile applications.

AeroDesignWorks, a developer of drone propulsion systems spun out of the German Aerospace Center in 2011, will become a wholly owned subsidiary of MTU. The companies did not disclose the purchase price.

MTU said the acquisition positions the company for accelerated entry into the growing UAV segment while strengthening Europe’s independent defense capabilities. The move combines MTU’s experience in industrial-scale engine development and manufacturing with the agility of a specialized startup focused on high-performance propulsion systems.

“Autonomous and high-precision systems are increasingly becoming a focal point of European aerospace and defense strategies,” said Dr. Ottmar Pfänder, MTU’s chief program officer. He said the acquisition supports Europe’s technological independence while expanding MTU’s role in next-generation propulsion systems.

MTU is a long-established supplier of military aircraft engines, including programs for the Tornado and Eurofighter fighter jets, the Tiger and CH‑53K helicopters, and the A400M transport aircraft. The company is also involved in developing propulsion technology for future European fighter aircraft and has existing expertise in autonomous flight systems through its electric motor subsidiary eMoSys.

AeroDesignWorks employs about 40 people and specializes in compact gas turbine engines with thrust levels up to 400 newtons. The company manufactures turbojet engines in series production and is fulfilling defense-sector orders while developing higher-thrust systems for national and European UAV and guided missile programs.

Under MTU ownership, AeroDesignWorks will remain legally independent, allowing it to retain its development speed and flexibility. MTU said it will support the subsidiary’s growth by providing access to advanced manufacturing capabilities and industrialization expertise.

AeroDesignWorks founders Dr. Georg Kröger and Ulrich Siller said the partnership with MTU complements the company’s strengths in rapid development and high-performance turbine design.

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