Aircraft

GFS enters new flying-saucer UAV in UK MoD's Grand Challenge

By Rob Coppinger

GFS Projects is to participate in the UK Ministry of Defence's Grand Challenge competition in August using a new 800mm (31.4in)-diameter Coanda-effect vertical take-off and landing unmanned air vehicle that will co-operate with a robotic ground vehicle.

The UAV will have a carbonfibre structure provided by the UK composites specialist Lola Group, a two-stroke engine running on an oil/petrol mix and a maximum take-off weight of 18.5kg (40.7lb). Payload capacity is 4kg and maximum fuel load 2.5kg. Test flights are expected at the end of April.

"We are working with [product engineering specialist] MIRA on the MoD's Grand Challenge and we are talking to a raft of people about investment. We have completed the first contract with the [US military]," says GFS founder Geoff Hatton. MIRA will provide the robotic ground vehicle for the challenge and Hatton is meeting with the US military to discuss a possible follow-on contract.

Air blown over the curved surface of the saucer-shaped vehicle generates lift as a result of the Coanda effect. Gust response is still an issue, Hatton says, and its resolution is linked closely to the vehicle's mass the heavier the UAV, the more effective its gust resistance.