SPYDR casts airborne ISR web

L-3 has launched a new ISR system based on its experience gained from the development of Project Liberty.

SPYDR is an equipment package devised for use on the Beech King Air 350 turboprop aircraft capable of collecting full motion video (FMV) and signals intelligence. The company has a King Air testbed and put the aircraft on display at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, where the SPYDR system is being shown to potential customers for the first time.

'We see this as our third generation ISR system,' says Joe Siniscalchi, VP of strategy at L3's mission integration division.

'This system encompasses some of the lessons learnt during the development of our other systems.'

Particular attention has been made to the ability to queue multiple sensors such as EO/IR, electronic surveillance system or radar onto a target.

'ISR used to be the domain of countries with large defence budgets,' said Siniscalchi, 'but systems like SPYDR are affordable and we can deliver this right now.'

Among the systems on the heavily modified King Air are an MX-15 EO/IR turret fitted to the underside of the aircraft, while on top is a satcom dome for beyond line of sight communications. L-3 have partnered with Selex Galileo to fit that company's Picosar synthetic aperture radar system. L-3 also offer a self-protection system for the aircraft.

The company is also studying the potential to fit a second MX-15 in an extended nose fairing.

The SPYDR testbed is now set to begin a tour which will take it to the Dubai Air Show as well as some customer trials.