Meridian Flight Systems selects Altair's ASAP to aid development of its Corra UAV and HERMES project

TROY, Mich. - Meridian Flight Systems in Leamington Spa, U.K., has joined Altair’s Aerospace Startup Acceleration Program (ASAP). The company announced that it will use Altair’s simulation, data analytics, and high-performance computing software to develop its Corra uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) and Hybrid Electric Range-Extending Microturbine Energy System (HERMES).

Under the collaboration, Meridian will use Altair’s software for aerodynamic, structural, and thermal system analysis, while Altair will provide technical support for aerospace applications. The companies also plan to coauthor research papers and present findings at industry conferences.

"Meridian marks yet another fantastic addition to ASAP. We are excited to collaborate with them to push innovation in the development of heavy-lift UAVs," said Pietro Cervellera, senior vice president of aerospace and defense at Altair in Troy, Mich. "With our world-class software and technical support, we look forward to seeing what technologies arise from the Corra and HERMES projects."

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Meridian CEO and CTO Saïf-Deen Akanni said the partnership is a "significant advancement" in the company’s efforts to develop UAV and hybrid power technologies. "Altair's best-in-class software solutions and technical expertise will be instrumental in optimizing the design and performance of the Corra UAV, while accelerating the development of the Hybrid Electric Range-extending Microturbine Energy System (HERMES) towards achieving airworthiness certification and operational readiness," he said.

Meridian aims to demonstrate how Altair’s tools can enhance the design, performance, and certification processes for UAVs and hybrid-electric propulsion systems.