PBS Aerospace has signed a subcontract agreement worth “several tens of millions of dollars” with drone developer Zone 5 Technologies to support US defense propulsion programs.
The multi-year deal will back domestic production of military-grade turbojet engines, drawing on proven solutions developed by the company’s Czech Republic-based parent corporation PBS Group.
Among PBS Aerospace’s portfolio is the PBS TJ40 turbojet engine, delivering about 100 pounds of thrust (445 newtons), and the PBS TJ80, which provides up to 200 pounds (890 newtons).
The PBS TJ40 measures 304 millimeters (12 inches) long, has a diameter of 147 millimeters (6 inches), and weighs 3 kilograms (7 pounds). It supports an altitude up to 9,000 meters (29,500 feet) and a speed of 988 kilometers (614 miles) per hour.
Meanwhile, the PBS TJ80 has a length of 512 millimeters (20 inches), a diameter of 235 millimeters (9 inches), and a weight of 13 kilograms (29 pounds). The technology allows a service ceiling of 10,000 meters (32,808 feet) and a maximum speed of 1,111 kilometers (691 miles) per hour.
Both engines are designed for rapid integration into missile and autonomous systems where dimensions and performance are critical.
“PBS Group’s investment in US manufacturing infrastructure reflects our commitment to supporting national security priorities through proximity to customers, agile production capabilities and adherence to US defense standards,” said Petr Kadner, CEO of PBS GROUP.
Sovereign Production in Georgia
The partnership follows the September 2025 inauguration of PBS Aerospace’s American headquarters in Roswell, Georgia, supported by a $20-million investment from PBS GROUP Owner William Didden to expand production capacity.
“This agreement represents a significant commitment to expanding our US defense manufacturing capabilities,” said Erin Durham, CEO of PBS Aerospace.
“Our Georgia facility is operational and scaling production to meet the demands of customers who require reliable, high-performance propulsion systems.”
