IDEX 2005: RDE Presents UAV Systems to Gulf Cooperation Council Members
14 February 2005 09:42
Rheinmetall Defence Electronics GmbH (RDE), a leading German defence company, plans to brief Gulf Arab and other potential clients on its new micro unmanned air vehicle (UAV) Carolo – intended for military and homeland security operations alike – as well as showcasing its KZO reconnaissance UAV.
Designed to support troops in the field, the Carolo P50 mini-UAV is able perform a range of tactical missions, including over-the-hill reconnaissance and urban warfare tasks. RDE developed the new UAV in cooperation with the Braunschweig company Mavionics GmbH.
GPS-aided, the Carolo P50 can be programmed to perform missions automatically – from launch to landing. All the soldier in the field has to do is define the mission and select the most suitable sensor for the task(s) to be performed.
After the launch, the operator of the system is able, in real time, to view the video data supplied by the air vehicle. Updated mission data can be sent to the Carolo P50 when it is in flight, which means that it can be reprogrammed to take account of changes in the tactical situation. After it has landed, it is able to perform new missions as soon as it has been reprogrammed and its batteries replaced.
The system is lightweight and extremely compact; when packed in its transport container, it can be carried by an infantryman without difficulty. And as it performs predefined missions fully automatically, it is very easy to operate.
RDE is also be displaying its KZO reconnaissance UAV at the IDEX defence show. Its unique ability to acquire real-time images by means of a powerful infrared sensor distinguishes the KZO from pure reconnaissance drones. Launched from a container, the system features an accurate parachute landing capability (on airbags). Data on stationary and moving targets, including their location and velocity, can be transmitted from the air vehicle over a distance of more than 100km at any time of the day, even under conditions of severe electromagnetic interference.
The KZO system is based on a robust modular airborne platform which can be easily equipped with various payloads for extended applications. The complete interoperable system ensures high mobility and short turn-around times, crucial factors in achieving operational effectiveness.
As well creating its own stand-alone UAV products and system solutions, RDE is increasingly engaging in cooperative ventures with other companies. "The worldwide situation requires coaction between nations. Presenting two members of our UAV family to the Gulf Cooperation Council could prove to be an important milestone, and help to form the basis for establishing new market opportunities in close cooperation with the countries, armed forces and industry in the region", predicts Ralf Hastedt, head of sales of RDE's Airborne Systems unit.
For more information on this company:
RHEINMETALL DEFENCE ELECTRONICS - UAV Systems for Reconnaissance, Combat Support and Attack
Copyright 2008 SPG Media Limited a subsidiary of SPG Media Group PLC
