UAVs

The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has unveiled a prototype special-mission, small electric-powered unmanned helicopter that folds up and can be carried in a suitcase.

The UAV is intended for use in delivering sensor payloads into difficult-to-access areas. An unnamed US government agency commissioned development of the Scientific Payload Insertion Device Electric Rotor (Spider) UAV in mid-2004.

Two of the UAVs are nearing delivery after the recent completion of qualification testing by the US Naval Air Systems Command. NRL says the UAV can be unfolded and launched within minutes and has a maximum speed of 45kt (85km/h) in forward flight and an endurance of 30min.

The payload bay is located within the airframe between the twin landing skids and can carry loads of up to 2.3kg (5lb). The prototypes had flown a total of 20h in 97 separate sorties up to the end of June. The fully autonomous aircraft has a price tag of $50,000 per system.

PETER LA FRANCHI/BALTIMORE