Neva Aerospace has introduced a new heavy-duty aerial robotic platform (ARP) concept called Vlinder.
The company is developing the technology to meet the needs of industrial operators who need to find ways to complement human workforces for maintenance and engineering work in dull, dirty, distant and dangerous locations.
Neva is looking to develop scalable ARPs with the flight endurance to work beyond line of sight control, the stability to act as steady platform for on-board robots carrying out precision work, and with a payload capacity of up to two tonnes.
A key technology for the capability is the use of distributed thrust from multiple hybrid ducted electric turbofans (ETF) with precise orientation aids for precision control. Future Vlinder prototypes will use turbines based on Neva's powerful patented static thrust designs that are optimised for stable VTOL hovering.
Vlinder ARPs will be designed to be integrated within human teams, existing fleets of machines and users' data-management workflow. They will be capable of achieving stable flight with multi-directional turbines from 20kg to two tonnes, carrying payloads such as cameras or robotic tools, or carrying out heavy lifting tasks as an aerial crane.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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