Rafael lifts the veil on Aerospike
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
The HMAR hybrid fuel-electric sUAS. (Photo: AAC)
Advanced Aircraft Company (AAC) has been selected by the USAF AFWERX innovation programme to develop its HAMR hybrid-electric sUAS for tactical long-endurance (3.5h) ISR missions.
AAC will work with the Air Force Research Laboratory and the National Security Innovation Network, using Small Business Innovation Research funding worth an undisclosed amount.
The portable HMAR hybrid fuel-electric sUAS will be launchable in minutes without the need for additional ground infrastructure, AAC announced on 9 February.
‘The system can be disassembled and stored in a single case and easily transported in a conventional civilian or small military vehicle,’ it added.
HAMR incorporates a multi-rotor configuration with a hybrid fuel-electric propulsion system for extended endurance and simultaneous Group 2 EO/IR payload capabilities in two bays.
Operators can choose from a range of commercially available optical or IR cameras and lidar systems in an open modular architecture, AAC added.
A computer-controlled 35cc single-cylinder piston engine drives a generator, which produces up to 2000W in electric power for six brushless electric motors and a backup battery.
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
India continues to develop its BrahMos missile, with the extended-range type recently tested.
India has set in motion yet another tender process to buy UAVs, this time quadcopters able to fly at altitude.
RUAG has announced the completion of the Swiss Cougar modernisation programme, which lasted around three years.
To speed up acquisition, Australia has selected the Austrian-designed Camcopter for a naval UAV requirement.
Replacing European-designed helicopters, Australia has turned back to the US for attack and naval rotorcraft.