UAV - Hybrid VTOL

Rheinmetall Airborne Systems Tactical Hybrid UAS

Posted on September 3, 2012 by The Editor

Rheinmetall Airborne Systems GmbH has announced details of the completely new, bi-hybrid tactical Unmanned Aircraft System that we revealed last week. The airborne system, currently operating under the project name TU-150 *, unifies fixed-wing with VTOL characteristics and is being developed in close cooperation with the Swiss UAV AG.
The versatile sensor concept adapts to a payload mix with a total weight of up to 30 kg, consisting of imaging and signal intelligence sensors, payloads or effectors. The UAS can fly for up to eight hours at a maximum speed of around 220 km/h. It is being developed consistently to a high level of interoperability and with low operating costs.
The power, which is generated in a turbine generator unit, drives both the electric rotors and the propeller. The unit operates on motor vehicle diesel (F54) or kerosene (F34/F40). The assembling of additional wing fuel tanks enables flight time to be extended by up to three hours.
With the TU-150 Rheinmetall Airborne Systems is expanding its tactical UAS product family. In addition to the KZO **and TR-50 SCOUT fixed-wing unmanned aircraft, an airborne system will be available in future which is supported by a joint ground and data link infrastructure and covers a wide range of civil and military mission scenarios, including in the maritime sector (automatic takeoff and landing capabilities – ATOL – already integrated).