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.
Alpha Unmanned Systems has been selected to participate in Inmarsat’s UAV Pop-up Lab, a programme aimed at exploring the advantages of satellite-enabled UAS with commercial end-users, the company announced on 20 February.
As part of the Pop-up Lab, Alpha Unmanned Systems will integrate the Inmarsat connectivity services using the Cobham Aviator UAV 200 terminal onto its Alpha 800 UAS. The company will work along side six other UAV companies and will carry out a range of missions using Inmarsat’s global satellite network enabling beyond line of sight operations and global resilient C2 capability for safer and more efficient flight operations.
Under the programme, Alpha Unmanned Systems will execute a beyond visual line of sight mission to deliver urgent medical supplies in a limited/no radio-frequency coverage area. The mission will utilise Inmarsat SATCOM to enable long-range control and real-time video streaming from the Alpha 800 tactical helicopter UAS. With an endurance of three hours, the Alpha 800 UAS can cover a wide range of area and its vertical take-off and landing capabilities allow for very precise control during missions.
The Alpha 800 is a tactical gasoline powered UAS capable of carrying a payload of 3kg. It is equipped with a military-grade autopilot with high precision GPS and sensors. The Alpha 800 was originally developed for ISR and can also be used for other services including delivery of urgently supplies.
Trial outcomes will be presented at an event on 30 May 2019 at Inmarsat’s headquarters.
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
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.
Prototypes from Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems recently passed through MOSA conformance trials and flight tests.
Funds for the second phase of this effort will be allocated in the US Department of Defense (DoD) FY2026 budget request.