A technology demonstrator for the development of future agile, autonomous and network-capable unmanned mission systems. This experimental carrier made entirely of carbon composite material (length: over 8 m, wingspan: over 7 m, maximum takeoff weight: at least 3 t, jet-propelled) operates autonomously and is monitored by a ground station merely to ensure to its flight safety. The demonstrator, which was designed as an electrical aircraft (with the exception of the landing gear, electronic actuators are used instead of hydraulic components), is equipped with a triplex flight control and navigation unit and has an open and modular avionic structure. This simplifies the installation and integration of an extremely wide range of sensors. These may be: electro-optical and infrared sensors, laser target designators, detectors for locating radio-magnetic signals (Emitter Locator System / ELS) and advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
Even if this UAV experimental vehicle is not a product that is destined for series production, either alone or in cooperation with European partners, EADS will be able to gather fundamental insights for operationally mature next-generation UAV products. With this demonstrator, EADS Military Air Systems will gain practical experience in the interoperability of unmanned systems within “Network Centric Operations” conducted in line with the latest NATO criteria and in autonomous operation interacting with other assets and systems deployed in aerial warfare.
