UMS SKELDAR announces 1st naval deployment of full ATOL capability of V-200 UAV

Europe’s leading provider of Rotary Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms, UMS SKELDAR, uses leading international defense exhibition IDEX 2021 to announce a unique achievement for its flagship SKELDAR V-200 UAV platform – the successful automatic take-off and landing (ATOL) of a tactical UAV from a ship.

Previously, platforms have operated in assisted mode with a crew manually overseeing take-off and landing via a joystick or computer control. Now, full ATOL capability enables both take-off and landing to be performed through the simple press. The platform uses a laser altimeter and GPS combination to track its location and calculate the required altitude reduction, culminating in a smooth and safe landing.

David Willems, VP Business Development and Strategy for UMS SKELDAR, explains: “This latest milestone for UMS SKELDAR is a real first: it is unique to our company, and it has never before been achieved in a military setting. The SKELDAR V-200 was conceived as a maritime platform, and this exciting achievement secures its place as the first choice for Navy commanders.”

In addition to this new capability, the SKELDAR V-200 continues to undergo software and hardware developments to ensure continued improvement and customers’ maximum ability.

“We are focused on the continued improvement of both SKELDAR UAV platforms. Our ongoing modernization programs aim not only to review the platforms’ capabilities but also analyze customer requirements to increase the service suite we provide alongside.”

About UMS SKELDAR V-200 UAV:

SKELDAR V-200 is the first rotary-winged medium-range RPAS that can be operated from a tailored Remote Pilot Station
(RPS). NATO STANAG-compliant remains the only unmanned rotary VTOL in its class powered by a heavy fuel engine. Equipped with multiple capabilities including surveillance and 3D mapping, the aircraft provides an edge in any environment – day or night.

The SKELDAR V-200 – incorporating Saab technology – can carry multiple payloads, including powerful EO/IR gimbals
coupled with ViDAR and AIS transponder.

The system provides real-time information to a Remote Pilot Station (RPS) or to a remote video terminal. Launched from
historically difficult locations such as the deck of a ship, a traveling convoy, or other small stationery areas, SKELDAR
V-200 is designed to provide real-time intelligence and surveillance as a force multiplier for land, civil security
, and maritime applications. This compact solution is fully autonomous, controlled by high-level-commands such
as “Point-and-Fly” and “Point-and-See”.

V-200 vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by UMS Skeldar has been embarked onboard K130-class corvette, FGS Braunschweig of the German Navy, for shipborne trials.

UMS SKELDAR V-200 UAV Specifications:

• Rotor diameter:4.6 m (15 ft)
• Airframe length:4 m (13 ft)
• Width:1.2 m (4 ft)
• Height: 1.3 m (4.2 ft)
• Payload capacity: Multiple
• MTOW: 235 kg (518 lbs)
• Data Link Range: 100 km, 200 km (54 NM, 108 NM)
• Service ceiling: 3000 m (9842 ft)
• Max airspeed: 150 km/h (81 kts)
• Fuel: Heavy Fuel (Jet A1, JP5, JP8)
• Endurance:5+ hours (Subject to Payload configuration)

About IDEX-2021

IDEX is the only international defense exhibition and conference in the MENA region demonstrating the latest technology across land, sea, and air sectors of defense. It is a unique platform to establish and strengthen relationships with government departments, businesses, and armed forces throughout the region.

Patronage and Organiser
IDEX is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and is organised by the Capital Events in association and with the full support of the UAE Armed Forces.

Location
IDEX takes place biennially at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), which is centrally located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The IDEX exhibition takes over 100% of the state-of-the-art exhibition center, utilizing 133,000sqm of event space.