What's next for the Pentagon after the Replicator programme?
Although the Replicator initiative has made several accomplishments, there are still multiple gaps to plug across the US Department of Defense (DoD) and its services.
Azur Drones, Thales developing Phebus
Azur Drones and Thales are developing Phebus, a connected mini-UAS and secure communications cell designed for defence forces and security services, Thales announced on 24 November.
Phebus is based on a Skeyetech mini-UAS operating inside a secure communications cell. Permanently connected to vehicles on the mission via a secure long term evolution cell, the Skeyetech UAS can collect optical and thermal images, as well as provide high levels of mobility and security required to deploy payloads during an operation.
The UAS is intended for long endurance and features obstacle avoidance and automated mission management software to enhance flight safety.
Personnel in the field will have direct access to geolocalised data gathered by the UAS and can utilise the system's integrated chat and 3D mapping functions to communicate with other network users.
The Phebus system is being developed at Azur Drones’ facility, with Thales providing technology expertise and in-depth knowledge of operational applications and use cases.
According to Thales, a number of public and private sector organisations have already shown interest in the system, and are working with the two companies as part of a collaborative innovation process. The market launch of the system is planned for early 2019.
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