Selex is planning past the MoD’s forthcoming round of testing on the Airlander, and envisions the aircraft being used as a “mothership” to launch other unmanned air vehicles from, including the company’s own Falco platform. A catapult launcher has already been developed for the Falco that could be adapted to suit this requirement.
A catapult sounds like an unnecessary complication. Generally, gravity and sufficient altitude are the only things needed to achieve flying speed.
If they are going to attempt UAV recoveries like this though (1:00 onwards), I want a ringside seat! :