Scimitar flying wing
Some big claims for a new design.
While the effectiveness of UAV systems is far more about systems innovation and systems integration than about platform design, the ability to effectively deploy these systems hinges heavily upon the choice of platform. This applies particularly to advanced sensory, weapons and communication systems, particularly those having significant bulk or mass.
Drawing on the lessons learned during early developments that lead to the first successful flexwing transatlantic crossing by Eppo Numan in 1990, the Scimitar is a swept, tailless UAV concept that incorporates a host of structural, materials, controls systems and aerodynamic innovations. These innovations are embodied in an advanced flying wing that can, not only carry a substantial (400 lb) modular payload, but is controlled entirely be morphing – that is without using hinging flight control appendages and surfaces such as ailerons, rudders or elevators.
The result is not only lighter construction, increased aerodynamic efficiency and improved signature mitigation, but permits the smallest tactical transportability packaging size ever conceived. For example, the Scimitar 15, of 32 foot wingspan, pictured here, folds down to a package size of nominally one foot in diameter by eighteen feet length in under ten minutes, not including the (up to) 400 lb QD interchangeable modular payload. This means that two or three units can be carried by a small tactical vehicle (HMWWV), or six by a medium tactical vehicle (MTVR, FMTV). Three could be shoehorned into a single Mk 48 torpedo sized container (21” x 216”) for submarine or airdrop tactical deployment
Venwal Design (Oshkosh, WI) and Helm Navigation (Buckeye, AZ) have teamed in the rapid development of this advanced UAV, and are seeking to further team with a major military contractor holding US Government clearances and full UAV systems capability in the furtherance of this project.
Contact rv-w@gmx.com
