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.
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