US DoD orders WASP aerostat systems
Drone Aviation has received a contract from the US Department of Defense (DoD) for the supply of its Winch Aerostat Small Platform (WASP) tactical aerostat system, it announced on 7 March.
The company will deliver the upgraded second generation WASP platform under the contract. Improved features on this system include day/night video and wireless communication range extension; expanded helium supply storage that supports extended deployment and operations for up to four weeks; redesigned mooring system for enhanced launch and recovery operations; and an upgraded and modular aerial payload interface unit to support interchangeable payloads including advanced ISR/video/SIGINT and re-trans communication systems.
Jay Nussbaum, chairman, Drone Aviation, said: ‘This DoD contract marks the latest milestone for the WASP which continues to demonstrate its unique capabilities and ability to meet evolving mission requirements. Having proven its capabilities through numerous army exercises, the WASP is building a strong reputation for value, both on the battlefield as well in its potential role in national security.
‘With this generation of the WASP, we are moving this company from its development phase into a commercialisation stage focused on aerial products designed for the military and civilian commercial markets.’
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