CUV completes aerostat test support for US Navy
Carolina Unmanned Vehicles (CUV) has successfully completed support a test series supporting the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic Naval Innovative Science and Engineering (NISE) Project, Tactical Deployable Mobile User Objective System (MUOS).
The project aims to enable assured tactical communications by employing a UAS with a communications surrogate payload.
CUV support included an integration test and two system demonstrations. The two demonstrations were in conjunction with Advanced Naval Technology Exercise in April 2021 and the Trident Warrior Exercises.
The testing used the CUV Engineering test Unit 3 (ETU3), a developmental platform for the Small Tactical Multi-Payload Aerostat System (STMPAS).
STMPAS is a mobile, trailer-mounted, tactical aerostat suitable for military missions such as persistent, 24/7 ISR, long-range C3 relay (60+miles) and acting as a C3 translation node.
Suited for border surveillance and post-disaster emergency communications, it can maintain continuous BVLoS communication to low-altitude UAS at extended ranges.
It has a minimum crew size of two technicians and is C-130 Roll-on Roll-off capable.
Previous versions of STMPAS were deployed by the Army to provide ISR capability for small tactical units in Afghanistan.
The current version of STMPAS provides an improved launch timeline and allows movement of the system with the Helikite inflated atop the trailer.
More from Air Warfare
-
Greece and Israel cosy up over Rafael’s Spyder air defence system
Ongoing discussions between Greece and Israeli arms manufacturer Rafael to acquire Spyder air defence systems underscored the resilience of international business ties despite geopolitical tensions.
-
General Atomics Mojave performs live fire tests amid push for FARA replacement
During the test the Mojave showcased its capability to act as a sensor, shooter and sustainer, potentially strengthening General Atomics’ pitch towards a FARA replacement.
-
India could buy nearly 100 new Tejas fighters in biggest ever domestic order
This procurement would form part of the Indian Air Force’s plan to retire its fleet of MiG-21 fighters and replace them with the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1As by 2025.
-
Romania receives three more F-16 fighters from Norway
Romania has continued to marking progress in its efforts to modernise its air force and replace its Soviet-era MiG-21 fighters.
-
Spain fortifies air defences with more NASAMS
Spain began the advancement of its air defence capabilities with the initiation of the NASAMS modernisation programme.
-
Nigeria confirms M-346 advanced trainer deliveries for this year
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will enhance its fleet with the imminent delivery of six Leonardo-built M-346 advanced trainer and light attack aircraft by the end of 2024.