Orbiter 4 finds maritime surveillance and patrol uses, says Aeronautics
The Orbiter STUAS from Aeronautics can be deployed for maritime patrol and surveillance, manufacturer Aeronautics claims. (Photo: Aeronautics)
The newest member of the Orbiter small tactical UAS family has multiple potential applications for navies.
Aeronautics on 3 May officially introduced its Orbiter 4 small tactical UAS (STUAS) for long-range and long-endurance (24h) maritime patrol missions.
‘The Orbiter 4’s high-performance EO/IR and MPR [maritime patrol radar] payloads are ideal for maritime monitoring’ as well as protecting offshore energy installations, SAR and ‘illegal activity tracking’, the company announced.
Based on the successful aerodynamic structure and properties of the Orbiter 3 STUAS, Orbiter 4 can carry and operate multi payloads simultaneously. Shephard reported in April that Aeronautics might install advanced Rafael communication systems on UAVs such as Orbiter 4 with a payload of up to 12kg (including U-STAMP and T-STAMP-XR EO/IR systems) and SATCOM systems.
Orbiter 4 can take off and land on any vessel; it has ‘already been fully integrated into the operational environment of navy vessels, and meets the requirements of navy operations’, Aeronautics claimed, adding: ‘Operated by only three personnel, it is easy to use, maintain, and carries a low logistical footprint.’
According to Shephard Defence Insight, India-based Mahindra Defence has an MoU with Aeronautics Group to offer a maritime version of the Orbiter 4 UAS for the Indian Navy.
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