NRL gets UV-18 Twin Otter for airborne research
The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and the navy's science and technology research squadron, Scientific Development Squadron ONE (VXS-1), have introduced the UV-18 Twin Otter as the newest addition to the squadron's fleet of research aircraft, NRL announced on 14 May.
The UV-18 is the militarised variant of the DeHavilland DHC-6, a high-wing, unpressurised twin engine turbine powered aircraft with fixed tricycle landing gear.
The aircraft provides an affordable and stable research platform with slow flight capabilities and an operational payload of up to 3,000lbs. It can fly at speeds of 85mph-190mph, with a nominal service ceiling of 13,000ft and a six-hour flight duration dependent on payload and flight configuration.
In addition to the UV-18, VXS-1 operates a varying range of aircraft that include three NP-3C and P-3C Orions, an RC-12 King Air, and 12 TigerShark UAS.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology]()
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
![Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract]()
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028]()
Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028
Acquired under Canada’s Department of National Defence ISTAR UAS project, the drones will be deployed from the Halifax-class frigates.
-
![US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays]()
US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays
The US Navy published a pre-solicitation notice of intent for the third phase of the F-35 Reprogramming Verification & Validation System. Meanwhile, with a five-year delay in its schedule, GAO foresees more postponements in the completion of the Block 4 effort.
-
![Newest US Coast Guard cutters go after Chinese vessels sailing in the Arctic]()
Newest US Coast Guard cutters go after Chinese vessels sailing in the Arctic
Cutters Earl Cunningham and Storis have been monitoring five Beijing research vessels navigating in the North Pole.
-
![US Navy selects 25 companies for up to $1.9 billion nuclear submarine contract]()
US Navy selects 25 companies for up to $1.9 billion nuclear submarine contract
The multi-award contract will support the scheduled repair and maintenance of nuclear-powered attack submarines at the US Navy’s primary public shipyards.
