Defence

Malaysia pushes on with unmanned air vehicle plans

By Vladimir Karnozov

Malaysia is continuing to advance its efforts to develop unmanned air vehicle technologies, unveiling three indigenous designs during last month's LIMA air show in Langkawi.

A joint venture involving Composite Technology Research Malaysia, Ikramatic and System Consultancy Services showed the MX-05 Aludra tactical UAV - a twin-boom, single-engine design with a pusher propeller and non-retractable wheeled landing gear. A prototype of the system (pictured below) made its flight debut from Batu Berendam airport, Malacca, shortly before the show.

© Vladimir Karnozov/Tim Bicheno-Brown

The MX-05 was exhibited with a Thales-sourced turret housing electro-optical/infrared sensors, a laser rangefinder and target designator. The design is offered for military applications, but could also meet the requirements of the police or the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, say industry sources.

Meanwhile, privately-owned Sapura displayed its Cyber Shark remotely piloted helicopter, which made its flight debut in Langkawi recently and has a claimed loiter time of 4-6h. The company also displayed its 10h-endurance Cyber Eye design, which has a high aspect-ratio wing and V-tail, and uses a high-set single engine with a pusher propeller. Both types could also be used to perform communications relay tasks for the Malaysian armed forces or law enforcement services.