BAE and Innovaero debut Strix, Australia’s first domestic armed VTOL UAS
The tandem wing Strix UAS can carry a new munition dubbed the Razer also developed by BAE Systems Australia. (Photo: BAE Systems Australia)
At the Avalon Airshow, BAE Systems Australia debuted Australia’s first domestically designed, built and armed VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) uncrewed air system (UAS), the Strix.
Developed in collaboration with Perth-based Innovaero, the tandem wing UAS can be used for ISR, strike missions and as a so-called ‘loyal wingman’ for helicopters.
Strix can carry a payload of up to 160kg over 800km and can be transported in a standard ISO format shipping container when collapsed.
Its VTOL characteristics mean the UAS can take off without needing an airfield and be operated from a helicopter to help protect a crew in high-threat scenarios.
BAE Systems Australia CEO Ben Hudson said the UAV could be ready for operational service by 2026, adding that work was under way
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