NGWS/FCAS Drone Technology Tests in Spain
The Spanish joint venture, Satnus, has successfully conducted a series of flight tests for remote-controlled drone demonstrators as part of the Next Generation Weapons System/Future Combat Air System (NGWS/FCAS) initiative. Over a two-week period in Huelva, Spain, the campaign focused on refining the technology essential for remote carriers that will operate in tandem with manned aircraft within the NGWS/FCAS framework.
The testing involved several validation flights of the Manned-Unmanned Teaming & Common Systems Demonstrator (MCSD), which is essentially a modified target drone. According to Satnus, the modifications made to both the target drone and its ground control systems were thoroughly validated during this campaign. “In addition to the structural changes, we have validated the remote control, communications, and Flight Termination System (FTS) subsystems, along with various payloads,” the company stated. They also reported successful evaluations of a preliminary version of the Demo Information Management (DIM) system and an initial prototype of the Command and Control (C2) system.
In anticipation of future operations, tests were also carried out to prepare for collaborative flights involving multiple actual MCSD platforms. This marks a significant step towards advancing the capabilities of drone technologies in military applications.
Satnus is a collaboration between GMV, Sener Aeroespacial, and Tecnobit-Grupo Oesía, and it plays a crucial role in leading the remote carrier technology segment of the NGWS/FCAS program. The NGWS is envisioned to incorporate remote carriers or swarming drones that will accompany sixth-generation manned aircraft, potentially replacing existing fighter jets such as the French Rafale and the multinational Typhoon.
These advanced platforms will be interconnected with each other and with various multi-domain systems through a data infrastructure referred to as the “Combat Cloud.” This interconnectedness will enable the platforms to function as sensors, effectors, and command and control nodes within a comprehensive system of systems approach, facilitating swift and informed decision-making in combat scenarios.
The development efforts led by Satnus are aimed at maturing these technologies while mitigating development risks. A preliminary design review is anticipated in 2026, which will be a pivotal milestone in the advancement of the NGWS/FCAS program.
