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.’
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems]()
Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems
As the dynamics of aerial combat rapidly evolve, Chinese scientists have engineered a sophisticated air separation drone model that can fragment into up to six drones, each capable of executing distinct battlefield roles and challenging the efficacy of current anti-drone defences such as the UK’s Dragonfire laser system.
-
![Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences]()
Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences
Advancements in air defence technologies have begun to reshape aerial combat dynamics in the Middle East, as illustrated by recent events involving the Israeli Air Force and Hezbollah.
-
![Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way]()
Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way
Both sides of the Russia-Ukraine war have been using UAS for effective low-cost attacks, as well as impactful web and social media footage. Thousands more have now been committed to Ukrainian forces.
-
![AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems]()
AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems
The US Army has intentions to develop light, medium and heavy variants of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) as part of the branche’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle family.
-
![DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract]()
DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract
DroneSentry-X, a cross-vehicle compatible, automated 360° C-UAS detect and defeat device, can offer 360° awareness and protection using integrated sensors. According to its manufacturer, it is suitable for mobile operations, on-site surveillance and on-the-move missions.
-
![Ukraine takes delivery of new indigenous C-UAS systems]()
Ukraine takes delivery of new indigenous C-UAS systems
Funded by the country’s former president, the new C-UAS systems will be sent to the frontline where they have already been tested against Russian invading forces.
