Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Boost Helicopter Operations
Alpha Unmanned Systems and Airbus Helicopters España have embarked on an innovative collaboration aimed at enhancing helicopter operations through the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This strategic partnership seeks to develop advanced operational concepts and technologies that enable effective manned-unmanned teaming, particularly in defense and security missions.
Eric Freeman, the CEO of Alpha Unmanned Systems, heralded the agreement as a pivotal advancement towards incorporating tactical UAVs into the next generation of helicopter operations. This initiative builds on recent collaborative exercises with the Spanish Army, including notable live demonstrations conducted last October at the 2E+I Forum in Toledo, where Alpha’s A900 UAVs seamlessly operated alongside Airbus H135 helicopters.
Demonstrating Interoperability
These joint exercises showcased the remarkable interoperability and the advantages of combining manned and unmanned systems in tactical scenarios. Crew members piloted the drones directly from the helicopter cockpits, highlighting the potential for enhanced operational efficiency and situational awareness in the field.
Luis Martín Díaz, Head of Customers and Programs at Airbus Helicopters España, emphasized the vital synergy between helicopters and UAVs, stating that this integration is crucial for bolstering security measures and expanding operational capabilities.
Introducing the Alpha A900
At the heart of this collaboration lies the Alpha A900, a sophisticated unmanned helicopter developed by Alpha Unmanned Systems. The A900 is designed for both maritime and terrestrial missions, offering versatility and resilience essential for modern operations. With a maximum takeoff weight of under 25 kilograms (55 pounds), it adheres to STANAG 4738 standards, making it suitable for military and security applications.
Equipped with advanced technology, the A900 boasts a cruising speed ranging from 32 to 54 knots (60 to 100 kilometers per hour). It features a robust 100cc two-stroke boxer engine and an onboard generator supplying up to 150W for various mission payloads, which can include EO/IR cameras, LiDAR, and maritime AIS radar.
Advanced Features and Capabilities
The Alpha A900 is designed with redundancy in its critical systems and is capable of GPS-denied navigation, ensuring reliable operation in diverse environments. Additionally, it can execute automatic vertical takeoffs and landings from dynamic platforms, such as naval vessels, enhancing its operational versatility.
Based in Madrid, Alpha Unmanned Systems operates a fleet of rotary UAVs, including both the A900 and the Alpha 800, which are currently deployed in over a dozen countries. Its clientele includes prominent organizations such as the US Department of Defense, the Spanish Armed Forces, the Hellenic Navy, and the Indonesian Coast Guard.
