Aircraft hydrogen fuel cell specialist H3 Dynamics and Malaysia’s PJBumi Technologies are partnering to produce and commercialize a fixed wing hydrogen-electric cargo uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) for operations in Southeast Asia. Under the agreement, which was formalized at the Paris Air Show, H3 Dynamics and PJBumi will work together to scale the production of the UAS using the Malaysian company’s patented powder-based hydrogen storage technology. “Together with H3 Dynamics’ ultralight and miniaturized fuel cells, small cargo UAS will now be able to operate over long distances on electric power,” Toulouse-based H3 Dynamics says. The Malaysian hydrogen specialist, a subsidiary of investment holding company PJBumi Berhad, and H3 Dynamics say the aircraft is expected to be a “perfect fit for emergency deliveries across Malaysia and Indonesia.” Prototype versions using the combined hydrogen-electric propulsion system have already begun test flights in Malaysia, H3 Dynamics CEO Taras Wankewycz tells Aviation Week. The companies say the initiative aligns with the recent announcement of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to launch a pilot project aimed at delivering medicines via drones. H3 Dynamics adds that the new PJBumi hydrogen storage system will provide a longer-range electric power alternative to batteries currently used in UAS, “supporting aerial deliveries of urgent medical supplies in rural areas, [providing] support to maritime search-and-rescue operations and large-scale agricultural surveys.” At the Paris Air Show, H3 Dynamics also announced it was teaming with autonomous aircraft company XSun to develop what they call the world’s first solar-hydrogen-electric UAS. Based on XSun’s SolarXone, the aircraft will be powered by a three-part “tribrid” propulsion system incorporating solar, hydrogen and battery power. A small 1-kW fuel cell based on H3 Dynamics’ Aerocell product line will provide cruise power, while batteries will be used for takeoff. Solar photovoltaic cells embedded in the wings will supply power to the overall propulsion system. Meanwhile, the French company is building up production capability for certified hydrogen-electric power systems at its Toulouse facility by year’s end. As well as PJBumi and XSun, H3 Dynamics is already working with manufacturers Airbus, Pipistrel, Lyte Aviation, Sea Cheetah and Qdot Technology. The Aerocell product line now includes 1-, 50-, 150-, 200- and 400-kW systems to address auxiliary power or propulsion on aircraft ranging from UAS to electric air taxis, light business jets and 50-100-seat regional aircraft.