Blueflite, a company that has received venture capital from a co-investment fund partnership between Paspalis and the Northern Territory’s Local Jobs Fund, is modernising logistics with its advanced cargo drone platform. Recently, Alex Farrugia, Investment Manager at Paspalis, and Frank Noppel, CEO of Blueflite, visited the North Australian Centre for Autonomous Systems (NACAS). The NACAS team provided a comprehensive tour of their facility, showcasing their cutting-edge carbon fibre placement robot. The robot uses 6-axis robotic printing to build carbon fibre storage vessels. It enables hydrogen storage because it can build the cylinder with a continuous wind, so there are no joints from which the hydrogen can leak. So, the volume-to-weight-to-pressure ratio is much greater than using traditional means. 

Frank Noppel’s visit to Darwin was pivotal in scoping out a contract with Charles Darwin University for a groundbreaking project—the development of a carbon-fibre hydrogen fuel tank vessel, a first in Australia. This project represents a significant leap in Blueflite’s technological capabilities and sustainability efforts.

During the visit, Alex Farrugia and Frank Noppel discussed new customer acquisition opportunities in light of the draft NT Drone Strategy. They explored industry entry pathways to Australian Defence, providing valuable insights into how enabling technology companies like Blueflite can integrate into this sector.

Additionally, while in Darwin, Frank Noppel hired Matt Devine to spearhead Business Development for Blueflite in Australia. Matt Devine will operate full-time out of the Darwin Innovation Hub, focusing on pursuing new business opportunities and expanding Blueflite’s presence in the Northern Territory.

Commenting on these developments, Frank Noppel stated, “Partnering with Charles Darwin University on the hydrogen fuel tank project is crucial in advancing Blueflite’s footprint in the Asia Pacific. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and our potential impact on the logistics industry.”

These strategic moves and partnerships highlight Blueflite’s commitment to innovation and growth. By leveraging the expertise and resources provided by Paspalis and its affiliates, Blueflite is well-positioned to advance its technology and enhance its global footprint. This includes exciting developments such as the strategic partnership with DroneUp, aimed at revolutionising last-mile delivery services.

Paspalis is proud to support Blueflite in these endeavours, confident in their ability to redefine logistics and create sustainable, efficient delivery systems for the future.