Italian Navy begins Camcopter S-100 evaluation
The Italian Navy has commenced technical evaluations of the Camcopter S-100 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) aboard the San Giusto Landing Helicopter Dock. The vessel has embarked on a week-long evaluation cruise with pilots from the navy’s 4th Helicopter Group and Schiebel technical representatives.
The Italian Navy selected the UAV in February 2014. One system, consisting of two aircraft, a control station, piloting unit and antennas, has been leased to the Italian Navy to meet ISR requirements of vessels at sea.
According to the navy, trials have so far evaluated the UAV’s ability to integrate with ship’s systems, to take-off and land from the ship’s deck; and the capabilities of the system’s sensors. Tests have also measured the noise and the radar and optical visibility to determine detection parameters of detection.
The Italian Navy plans to operate the UAV as an extension of the host vessel’s sensor suite, to broaden the effective horizons of its ISR assets, and provide greater standoff range when approaching potential threats in the vicinity.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
Shaping the future of defence: What 2025 holds for the global drone market
The UAV market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with innovations in technology and battlefield applications driving demand across military sectors. From the battlefields of Ukraine to NATO exercises and beyond, drones are transforming how wars are fought and supported.
-
Maris-Tech confirms customers signing up for Jupiter Drones codec and AI-powered system
Launched at AUSA in October, the company’s multi-stream video codec is attempting to bring a new lease of life to drone technology through its AI accelerator.
-
AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
-
US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
-
AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
-
Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.