Saab demonstrates vertical-lift UAS

The Skeldar V-200 vertical-lift unmanned aerial system by Saab of Sweden has verified key capabilities in flight testing in Sweden and the United States.

The testing to demonstrate both land-based and sea-based operations, were conducted in night and day circumstances and showed system capabilities, including convoy shadowing, performance of its EO/IR sensors, as well as precision landing.

Long-range missions using tactical hand-over between ground control stations were also demonstrated.

Saab said a heavy fuel engine for the Skeldar-200 has been verified and delivered and is cleared for flight testing.

“The Skeldar V-200 has passed yet another important milestone in the program with these key capabilities verified and demonstrated to various customers,” says Mikael Franzen, director of Saab’s Tactical UAS business area.

“The combination of two alternative engine types, a modular payload design, and the ability to incorporate and utilize a variety of data link systems, provides a true multi-mission capability for the Skeldar V-200 and a flexibility that enables the customer (to) successfully meet their mission objectives on land or at sea.”