NRL gets UV-18 Twin Otter for airborne research
The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and the navy's science and technology research squadron, Scientific Development Squadron ONE (VXS-1), have introduced the UV-18 Twin Otter as the newest addition to the squadron's fleet of research aircraft, NRL announced on 14 May.
The UV-18 is the militarised variant of the DeHavilland DHC-6, a high-wing, unpressurised twin engine turbine powered aircraft with fixed tricycle landing gear.
The aircraft provides an affordable and stable research platform with slow flight capabilities and an operational payload of up to 3,000lbs. It can fly at speeds of 85mph-190mph, with a nominal service ceiling of 13,000ft and a six-hour flight duration dependent on payload and flight configuration.
In addition to the UV-18, VXS-1 operates a varying range of aircraft that include three NP-3C and P-3C Orions, an RC-12 King Air, and 12 TigerShark UAS.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Royal Navy destroyer completes UAV live-fire exercise before heading to the Indo-Pacific]()
Royal Navy destroyer completes UAV live-fire exercise before heading to the Indo-Pacific
HMS Dauntless ran a full UAV test to mimic potential real-world threats.
-
![Havelsan sells ADVENT CMS into Chilean Navy frigates]()
Havelsan sells ADVENT CMS into Chilean Navy frigates
The system is intended to add enhanced operational precision to two ageing vessels.
-
![Second rMCM vessel begins sea trials, advances autonomous minesweeping]()
Second rMCM vessel begins sea trials, advances autonomous minesweeping
The rMCM programme will ultimately comprise of 12 vessels, six each working for the Belgian and the Royal Netherlands Navy.
-
![Long-delayed polar icebreaker programme gets cash and impetus boost]()
Long-delayed polar icebreaker programme gets cash and impetus boost
The US Government has awarded a significant contract to move along its Polar Security Cutter programme.
-
![Avalon 2025: Kongsberg confirms its first Australian missile factory]()
Avalon 2025: Kongsberg confirms its first Australian missile factory
The deal, which has been planned since August 2024, is part of an ongoing attempt to bolster Australia’s defences against the potential of Chinese aggression.
-
![TKMS joins forces with Norwegian shipbuilder for Fridtjof Nansen frigate replacement bid]()
TKMS joins forces with Norwegian shipbuilder for Fridtjof Nansen frigate replacement bid
Four shipbuilders have been downselected to build the frigate replacement programme, and TKMS hopes the new deal will give it a geographical advantage.
