D&S 2022: Thailand debuts MERT-R medevac UAV
This is the MERT-R medevac UAV, which is designed to carry a patient to a medical facility. (Sompong Nondhasa)
A new search-and-rescue UAV for military missions was unveiled at Defense & Security 2022 in Bangkok. It is designed for medical evacuation of frontline victims or emergencies.
The MERT-R medevac UAV was designed, developed and assembled by the Royal Thai Army’s Medical Department and Pulse Science in Thailand. It can carry one patient or other equipment.
This is the first time this type of UAV has become available in Thailand, carrying a patient on a stretcher installed under the aircraft’s fuselage.
The MERT-R has eight rotors and motors. The fuselage is made of carbon fibre and titanium for lighter weight,
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
AIM-260 JATM deal puts Australia’s missile-industrial ambitions in focus
While a potentially accelerated acquisition timeline could strengthen the RAAF’s long-range air combat capability, Canberra’s continued reliance on US missile production is also put under the spotlight in parallel to its push to build a sovereign industry.
-
USAF opens B-52 upgrade to new companies as major programmes fall behind schedule
The US Air Force is seeking additional contractors to support communications upgrades for the B-52, while multiple Stratofortress modernisation programmes continue to experience delays, cost growth and technical challenges.
-
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.