Integrator Block 2 UAV completes first flight

Insitu has successfully completed the first flight of the Block 2 version of the Integrator unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The latest technology release of the system includes a suite of upgrades to provide enhanced capabilities for operators of the agile intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) UAV.

Conducted at Insitu’s flight test range in Oregon, the two hour flight was conducted using the company’s Common Open-mission Management Command and Control (ICOMC2) ground control station. ICOMC2 enables flight of multiple heterogeneous UAS and enables US and NATO member nations to jointly support military operations through a STANAG 4586 compliant system. The flight completed with the current Mark 4 Launcher and SkyHook recovery systems that support expeditionary missions and rapid troop movement.

According to the company, Integrator Block 2 will allow customers to expand operations with an extended upward temperature limit of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It also implements multiple system reliability improvements, including the option to power with either JP8 or JP5 fuel; and utilises an improved sensor turret, which includes the latest mid-wave infrared sensor with onboard image stabilisation, helping imagery analysts to see objects of interest more clearly during day and night missions.

Ryan Hartman, senior vice president of integrator programs, Insitu, said: ‘We are very pleased with the successful first flight and honoured to provide enhanced capabilities for our customers. Insitu prides itself on continued innovation to ensure that our customers have the latest and greatest technologies available on Insitu UAS.’