ASIA-PACIFIC UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE DIRECTORY 2019 - Armada ...
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Regional
UAV DIRECTORY
Boeing
Boeing and RAAF’s unveiled an experimental
unmanned fighter, the Air Power Teaming System
(or the less clunky ‘Loyal Wingman’), at the Avalon
airshow in Australia this year. The concept has been
derived through Minor Program 6014 Phase 1. It
could accompany the RAAF’s F-35s or F-18s and
have kinetic as well as ISR potential.
ASIA-PACIFIC
UNMANNED AERIAL
VEHICLE DIRECTORY 2019
The development and acquisition of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is
picking up the pace in the Asia Pacific, with demand driven by ongoing
modernisation efforts across the region.
by JR Ng
T
he past year has been another environments – a development which AUSTRALIA
dynamic year of expansion for highlights indigenous mastery of the The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has
regional UAV developments, advanced technologies necessary to emerged as a leading regional UAV user
particularly in terms of fielded produce and operate such platforms. in recent years, with its three services
technologies and their use in Not to be outdone, at the Avalon simultaneously pursuing a broad
an operational environment. China has 2019 exhibition in March 2019 Australia range of development and acquisition
unsurprisingly taken the lead in terms of unveiled a next-generation combat UAV programmes that are noteworthy
indigenous production and innovation, that could eventually serve as robotic for being diverse, from pocket-sized
demonstrating its intent to dominate ‘wingmen’ for the Royal Australian Air ‘nanocopters’ to high-end medium-
the region at the Airshow China 2018 Force’s (RAAF’s) combat aircraft, a joint altitude long endurance (MALE) and
exhibition in Zhuhai with hundreds of effort between Boeing and the Australian high-altitude long endurance (HALE)
homegrown state-owned and private Department of Defence (DoD) and the systems.
companies showcasing an enormous first known development of its kind in The Australian Army has been
range of UAV platforms, payloads, and the region. experimenting with UAVs as early as the
associated technologies in a dedicated Elsewhere, the proliferation of UAVs 1990s before introducing some of these
exhibition hall. is indicative of the increasing maturity capabilities during overseas deployments
A particular theme that stood out of such platforms and their associated – including Afghanistan, East Timor,
among the spectacle was the large technologies, as well as the growing and Iraq – from 2005. The service is
representation of stealthy, long-range confidence and desire of regional looking into expanding its use of such
platforms that are aimed at penetrating countries to incorporate these into their systems following more than a decade
deep into contested or heavily defended military forces. of successful UAV operations, with new
12 | Asian Military Review |
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UAV DIRECTORY
capabilities expected to be introduced by flight hours. At present, a dedicated endurance ScanEagle UAV system aboard
the mid-2020s. RAAF UAV capability is absent until a the RAN’s three Adelaide class FFG-7
The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has new armed MALE platform is selected frigates were completed aboard HMAS
stood up a dedicated UAV unit known as through Project Air 7003. Defence Newcastle in June 2016. The system is now
822X Squadron, which is also the fourth Minister Christopher Pyne announced in in operational use aboard the Adelaide-
operational squadron in the RAN’s Fleet November 2018 that General Atomics had class frigates and was deployed in June
Air Arm. The unit oversees the service’s been selected as the preferred bidder for 2017 along with HMAS Newcastle as
fleet of Boeing ScanEagle and Schiebel Air 7003, with candidate platforms either part of Operation Manitou in the Middle
S-100 Camcopter VTOL UAVs. be the MQ-9 Reaper Block 5 variant or the East, where its visual and ranging system
The Royal Australian Air Force MQ-9B Sky Guardian under development (ViDAR) helped gather surveillance data.
(RAAF) formerly operated four Israel for the UK armed forces. A procurement While on its deployment, the ScanEagle
Aerospace Industries (IAI) Heron 1 decision is expected by mid-2019, with UAV was also involved in the RAN’s first
MALE UAVs leased from Canadian initial delivery expected between 2020- operational manned/unmanned teaming
company MDA, while an Memorandum 2021 and fully operation by 2023. (MUM-T) with the frigate’s Sikorsky MH-
of Understanding (MOU) for logistics In February 2019, Boeing and the DoD 60R helicopter in September 2017. The
and training support was concluded with announced a partnership to develop a Australian Army also leased army leased
Canadian forces deployed in Afghanistan. large UAV concept demonstrator that ScanEagles and completed 45,000 flying
Following the ADF’s withdrawal will be capable of smart teaming with hours while deploying the system in
from Afghanistan, two Heron 1 UAVs existing military aircraft, using Artificial Afghanistan before acquiring the Shadow
were retained at the Woomera test Intelligence (AI) enabled technologies to 200 system.
range in south Australia to ensure that fly independently or in support while
RAAF personnel continued to hone their maintaining safe separation between Schiebel Camcopter S-100: The RAN
operational skills prior to the introduction other aircraft. selected the S-100 Camcopter under the
of future MALE and HALE platforms. Navy Minor Project 1942 tender request.
These were subsequently retired in July Fielded Capabilities Although the number of S-100 systems
2017, having trained over 200 pilots Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle: Initial flight was not disclosed, the rotary UAV was
and accumulated more than 30,000 trials to assess the operability of the long- to be used for operational training and
ORBITER 4
Small Tactical UAS
ORBITER 3H
Hybrid Long Endurance STUAS ORBITER 2
Mini UAS
Orbiter 3H ORBITER 1K
NEW Member of
Loitering Munition UAS
the Orbiter Family
See us at
Paris Air Show 2019
Outdoor display A8
Ahead of Time
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UAV DIRECTORY
Royal Australian Navy sailors launch HMAS following its unveiling in mock-up form
Royal Australian Navy
Newcastle’s embarked Scan Eagle Unmanned at the Australian International Airshow
Aerial System from the ship’s flight deck in March 2019. The DoD is investing $28
during Exercise Kakadu 2018. million in the development programme.
Boeing also stated that it will build three
prototypes in Australia.
FLIR Systems PD-100 Black Hornet
II: The Australian Army outlined plans
in 2017 for each combat platoon to be
equipped with FLIR PD-100 Black Hornet
II ‘nano-UAVs’. Weighing approximately
18g, the hand-launched UAV features a
tadpole-shaped fuselage design that is
propelled by an electric motor driving a
120mm two-bladed main rotor and tail
rotor. It can stay airborne for up to 25
minutes on a full charge, and can operate
to a maximum range of 2km from the
base station. Around 160 Black Hornet
systems will be deployed across every
combat platoon as a reconnaissance asset
with deliveries commencing in early 2018
and expected to be completed by 2019.
Under Development/Consideration/
Trials
development ahead of a future phase of systems, and initial training. It also Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton: A
Joint Project 129 that aims to select one to included funding to deliver the UAVs HALE UAV capability for persistent
two vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) to Australian troops in Afghanistan. The long-range maritime patrol and other
UAV platforms to conduct operations two systems were delivered by April 2012 surveillance missions is being sought
from the RAN’s Future Frigates and and were operated by 20 Surveillance under Project AIR 7000 Phase 1B, with
offshore patrol vessels (OPVs). Delivery and Target Acquisition (STA) Regiment. the latest Defence White Paper in 2016
of the first S-100 systems powered by By September 2013, the type had stating that up to seven of these UAVs
55hp (41kW) Diamond gasoline piston completed 10,000 flying hours in support are expected to be acquired from the early
engines occurred in mid-2017, with of International Security Assistance 2020s. The Australian Department of
additional systems equipped with Force (ISAF) troops before returning Defence (DoD) ultimately committed to
modified Rotron 600 HFE propulsion to Australia the following month. The six Tritons, with the first being contracted
systems delivered in December 2017. army is presently seeking its replacement in June 2018 and the second in March
Schiebel will update two of these vehicles under the Land 129 Phase 3 programme 2019. The first air vehicle is also expected
with the internally developed S-2 HFE with the aim of acquiring a new capability to enter service in mid-2023 and be fully
system, which is expected to be delivered by around 2022. operational by 2025. All six platforms
to the RAN in the third quarter of 2019 are planned to be delivered by late 2025
for acceptance testing. The Australian AeroVironment RQ-12 Wasp AE: In and based at RAAF Base Edinburgh in
Army is also operating the type under June 2017 the Australian government South Australia, When in service, the
lease, and in December 2018 tested Elta announced a contract worth up to $36.5 Triton UAVs are expected to complement
Systems’ ELK-7065 high frequency (HF) million for the delivery of hand-launched the RAAF’s Boeing P-8A Poseidon
communications intelligence (COMINT) AeroVironment Wasp AE UAVs to fulfil maritime patrol aircraft, paving the way
and direction-finding system and the army’s small unmanned aerial system for the retirement of the service’s ageing
Overwatch Imaging’s TK-5 Firewatch (UAS) requirement under Project Land Lockheed Martin AP-3C Orions. The total
smart tactical mapping payload aboard 129 Phase 4. The Army plans for every value of the programme is expected to be
one of its leased platforms. combat team to be equipped with the worth approximately $5 billion.
1.2kg Wasp AE mini-UAV, which can
AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems/ operate for up to 50 minutes out to a BANGLADESH
Textron Systems RQ-7B Shadow: The range of 5km. The UAV is equipped with Although Bangladesh does not presently
acquisition of two complete RQ-7B a pan-tilt-zoom Mantis i22 AE gimballed operate any military UAVs, the country’s
Shadow 200 tactical UAV systems at a payload that delivers live, streaming procurement agency – the Directorate
cost of $133 million (AUD$175m) for colour and infrared IR) video. General Defence Purchase (DGDP) –
the Australian Army was announced in Boeing Airpower Teaming System issued a tender notice in December 2017
August 2010 under Joint Project 129 Phase (BATS): The 11.7m long BATS features a to procure a MALE-class UAV for the
2. The package comprised 18 air vehicles, design range of around 3,700km and is Bangladesh Air Force (BAF). The DGDP
four ground control systems, support expected to make its first flight in 2020, said the UAV will be used for intelligence,
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UAV DIRECTORY
surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and and mapping. This was subsequently composites and control technology.
targeting operations under the military’s acquired by the People’s Liberation In August 2018, the RMAF released
Forces Goal 2030 modernisation plan. Army (PLA) for tactical missions such as its Capability 55 (CAP55) roadmap that
The UAV is expected to have a front-line reconnaissance and electronic outlines its modernisation plans up to
maximum speed of 108 knots (200km/h) jamming. 2055, which also highlighted the need
and maximum range of 1,000km, as well for a MALE-class reconnaissance UAV. A
as a maximum ceiling of 6,000m or higher. Panghyon I and II: Domestically request for information was issued in late
Also desired is a ground control station, manufactured versions of the X’ian ASN- December and called for responses by
avionics systems, sensors, datalinks, 104 (described above) and ASN-105 UAVs. February 2019, indicating that the service
electro-optical and IR payloads, and the The Panghyon II is essentially the same has yet to firm up its requirements.
provision to carry weapons. airframe but incorporates an extended
Unconfirmed reports have suggested range control system. Fielded Capabilities
that the Bangladeshi Air Force (BAF) has Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle: Malaysian
selected China’s Wing Loong II strike- Yakovlev OKB Pchela-1T: Developed company Unmanned Systems Technology
capable reconnaissance UAV, with an in the early 1990s to meet a (UST), a subsidiary of Composites
initial contract covering four air vehicles, tactical surveillance and electronic Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM),
a ground control station (GCS), and countermeasures requirement, the is contracted to provide UAV surveillance
associated training and logistical support. Pchela-1T adopts a pusher-propeller covering sections of land and sea in and
Delivery is expected to be made in mid- propulsion arrangement and carries a around Sabah. ScanEagle UAVs have
to late-2019. TV camera with zoom lens. It is believed been leased by the MAF Joint Force
that the DPRK acquired up to 10 of these Headquarters to operate from its Kudat
DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC UAVs. base.
OF KOREA (DPRK) Taiyuan Navigation Technologies Sky-
The DPRK’s interest in UAVs can be 09P: The Sky-09P is powered by a two- Unmanned Systems Technology (UST)
traced back to the 1970s, although it was blade propeller driven by a tractor engine ALUDRA Mk1: Development of the
not until the late 1980s when a number mounted in the nose. It is now likely that ALUDRA Mk1 can be traced back to
of ASN-104/D-4 UAVs were acquired the DPRK is locally manufacturing the a number of earlier efforts by CTRM
from China. During the 1990s a small type, following the acquisition of several and SCS (SR-1 and SR-2; Nyamok)
number of Russian-made DR-3 Reys were of these UAVs in the 1990s. that commenced from 2003. At least
received from Syria and Pchela-1T UAVs 15 systems are believed to be operated
from Russia. MALAYSIA under lease since 2006, with UST as main
By the early 2000s North Korea The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) contractor.
possessed not only a growing inventory presently operates leased UAVs – the
of UAVs but had begun to manufacture Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle and the Thales España Fulmar: The Malaysian
a UAV based on the ASN 104, known indigenously developed Alliance Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA)
locally as the Panghyon I. The improved Unmanned Developmental Research acquired six Fulmar UAVs for its latest
Panghyon II based on the ASN-105 Aircraft (ALUDRA) Mk1 tactical UAV. New Generation Patrol Craft (NGPC)
followed several years later. The country is looking to expand its in 2016. The Fulmar UAV is designed to
Reports also indicate that the DPRK use of UAVs – particularly by the Royal support ISR roles and can carry an 8kg
is developing a long-endurance UAV, Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and Royal payload. The MMEA-specific model
with Republic of Korea (RoK) officials Malaysian Navy (RMN) as it seeks will carry one high-resolution video
revealing that “numerous test flights” cost-effective measures to monitor camera with automatic target tracking
by such prototypes have been detected developments in the South China Sea, capabilities. The MMEA’s Fulmar UAV is
since early 2016. In June 2017, a crashed Straits of Malacca, and the Sulu Sea near launched via a catapult launcher, situated
1.8m-long and 2.4m-wide UAV was Sabah. just behind the ships’ SMASH 30mm
discovered in the South Korean county Korean Air Aerospace Division naval gun system. The UAV is recovered
of Inje, Gangwon province. South (KAL-ASD) agreed in April 2018 to using an impact-absorbing net deployed
Korean officials subsequently revealed transfer technologies and expertise to on the deck space immediately behind
that the UAV had taken photographs of the Malaysian company DRB-HICOM the bridge.
the deployment site of the US Army›s Defence Technologies (Deftech). This
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense would allow it to support local co- Under Development/Consideration/
(THAAD) system in Seongju prior to the production of the Korean Unmanned Trials
crash, suggesting that the communist System (KUS)-FS MALE UAV, the KUS- Unmanned Systems Technology (UST)
state has significantly improved the range FT tactical UAV, the KUS-VH vertical ALUDRA Mk2: The ALUDRA Mk2 is
of its UAVs. helicopter, the KUS-VT tiltrotor, and the intended to be acquired by the MAF,
KUS-HD hybrid multi-rotor UAV. although this requirement appears to
Fielded Capabilities Deftech is also partnering with have lapsed with the armed forces still
Xi’an ASN Technical Group ASN- Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) to operating the Mk1.
104/D-4: Development of the D-4 began in meet an anticipated RMAF requirement Deftech ALUDRA Camar: Deftech
March 1980 and was originally intended for wide area surveillance with its and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
to be a low-altitude, low-speed UAV for Anka MALE UAV, also with potential (UTM) are jointly developing a 40kg-
civilian applications such as aerial survey technology transfers in advanced aero class surveillance UAV which is expected
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UAV DIRECTORY
to be completed by 2019. The Camar is capability for their extended maritime such as the Boeing C-17 and Lockheed
constructed from reinforced composites and economic exclusive zone (EEZ) Martin C-130J, which both countries operate.
is 2.5m long with a 4m span. Deftech patrols. However, no formal requirement
states that the Camar will be capable of has been raised to date. Fielded Capabilities
flying for up to six hours with a control In November 2018, NZDF chief Air IAI Heron 1/2: The Indian Air Force (IAF)
radius of approximately 80km Marshal Kevin Short noted in a televised is known to operate at least 20 Heron
interview that the service is seeking a new MALE UAVs for long endurance ISR
MYANMAR UAV capability by the mid-2020s. mission, with the first examples delivered
The Myanmar Air Force (Tatmadaw Lay) in 2001. Meanwhile, the Indian Army
is believed to be operating a squadron Fielded Capabilities signed a $218 million contract in February
of Chinese-manufactured UAVs based Skycam UAV Kahu: The Kahu has 2013 for additional Heron UAVs that
at Meiktila Air Base in north-central been designed as a high performance, were delivered from early 2014 to equip
Myanmar. Reports of UAVs being tested aerodynamically efficient mini-UAV that its artillery regiments situated along the
by the Tatmadaw in Rakhine State is equipped with an autopilot system disputed Sino-Indian border. The army
near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border designed by the New Zealand Defence earlier acquired 16 Heron UAVs in 2009.
surfaced in early 2015 before the outbreak Technology Agency. It is presently The Indian Navy (IN) is believed to
of the Kokang conflict. It is also pursuing operated by the New Zealand Army and operate at least 12 Heron UAVs, with a
indigenously developed systems, with can carry a range of high performance number of these located at its Porbandar
one example armed with small unguided still, motion video and forward-looking facility on the west coast to monitor the
bombs showcased at its 71st anniversary infrared (FLIR) sensors, with a flight waters off Karachi. However, a Heron
parade in December 2018. endurance of two hours and a range UAV crashed soon after take-off in March
of 25km. 2018. Taken together, the total number
Fielded Capabilities of these air vehicles in Indian military
China Aerospace Science and INDIA service likely exceeds 50 units.
Technology Corporation (CASC) Cai India has been involved in UAV
Hong/Rainbow (CH)-3: CASC’s CH-3 development for over two decades, IAI Searcher Mk II: All three services of
UAV, developed by its China Academy with research and development (R&D) the Indian armed forces have also been
of Aerospace Aerodynamics (CAAA) organisations such as the Aeronautical operators of the tactical-class Searcher
subsidiary, features a cranked wing Development Establishment (ADE), II UAV since 2001. The MkII variant
design a span of 8m as well as forward Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), features extended-span wings and
canards. The UAV has a maximum take- Defence Research and Development an AR 682 rotary engine that provide
off weight of around 650kg. It is powered Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan improved flight endurance over the
by a rear-mounted piston engine driving Aeronautics Limited (HAL), National earlier model. It is also configurable for
a three-bladed pusher propeller and Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), tactical surveillance and communications
can carry a payload of up to 180kg. The developing UAVs with ISR, targeting, relay and can carry multiple payloads
company has stated that it can fly for up and weapon guidance capabilities for a simultaneously.
to 12 hours with a control radius of 200km number of years.
via line-of-sight (LOS) datalinks. Between The country has a growing UAV IAI Harop/Harpy: Although not
10-12 CH-3 UAVs are believed to have requirement for its military, paramilitary, specifically a UAV, the IAF has procured
been acquired by Myanmar. border security forces, and commercial at least 10 units of the Harop loitering
organisations across the platform size munition under a $100 million deal in
NEW ZEALAND spectrum. Indigenous efforts have thus 2009, which were operational by 2013
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) far resulted in a number of deployable to provide an all-in-one search, observe,
has expressed its desire for aerial ISR mini- to tactical-class UAVs, although track, and attack capability against
UAVs in its Future Land Operating local industry has been struggling to fleeting targets of opportunity. The IAF
Concept 2035 paper, which outlines develop larger platforms in the MALE also operates a number of the Harpy anti-
potential challenges for its armed forces and HALE class. radar attack munitions.
in the next decade and beyond. However, collaboration with foreign
A similar desire had also been developers such as Israel’s IAI as well as Under Development/Consideration/
highlighted by the NZDF in its latest technology research institutes – which Trials
2016 Defence White Paper, which has are also involved in R&D or part- IAI Heron TP/TP-XP: In September 2015
proposed $14 billion (NZ$20 billion) out manufacture of more advanced platforms India’s Minister of Defence approved
to around 2030 to enhance the capabilities – could finally provide the necessary a US$400 million purchase of 10 Heron
of its various services, although both breakthroughs in the development Turboprop (TP) MALE UAVs, with
documents do not offer any specific of larger multi-role UAVs. In March deliveries within 12-18 months of contract
timelines or preferred systems. 2019, US DoD acquisition head Ellen signing. However, these air vehicles have
The Royal New Zealand Navy Lord revealed that the US Air Force yet to materialise – likely due to India›s
(RNZN) has also indicated an interest to Research Laboratory is aiming to partner entry into the Missile Technology Control
field a maritime UAV aboard its Otago- with DRDO to develop a small, air- Regime (MTCR). In February 2017, IAI
class OPVs, which would greatly benefit launched UAV system that would likely announced a new export-version of the
from an organic high-speed surveillance be deployed via air mobility transports Heron TP called the Heron TP-XP. This
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UAV DIRECTORY
being the IAF’s updated Jaguar MAX
IAI
(Mothership for Augmented Xploitation).
The company has said it aims to
complete a prototype by 2022 and have
a production-ready model ready by 2029.
INDONESIA
Indonesia has maintained a stated need
for UAVs for several years in a bid
to shore up defences across its huge
territorial waters, which include around
17,000 islands. Attempts to procure and
indigenously develop UAV platforms
for the Indonesian armed forces (Tentara
Nasional Indonesia, TNI) have been
hindered by a lack of industrial and
technical capabilities as well as financial
constraints.
The country’s top defence officials
IAI's Heron TP is under consideration by several Asian have reiterated a requirement for armed
countries, with a delivery to India apparently imminent.
MALE-class UAVs. PT Dirgantara
Indonesia (PTDI) and Turkish Aerospace
indicated an interest in joint development
– based on the Anka UAV – for the
export variant has a reduced payload of Panchi, was under development but Indonesian Air Force (TNI-Angkatan
450kg compared to the 1,000kg capacity of this effort also appears to have ceased Udara, TNI-AU) In January 2018 and
the original model to enable members of following the cancellation of the again in August 2018. Officials have
the MTCR to acquire it without violating army’s order. also outlined an interest to acquire
the regime’s obligations. armed UAVs from China, with an eye on
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems technology transfer that could eventually
DRDO Rustom I/II: The DRDO’s Inc (GA-ASI) Predator B Guardian: Up enable PTDI to develop advanced UAV
Rustom programme aims to produce an to 22 units of the Guardian, an unarmed platforms and systems.
indigenously developed multirole MALE maritime variant of the MQ-9 Reaper
UAV to equip all three Indian military MALE UAV system, worth $3 billion Fielded Capabilities
services. The platform is expected to could be acquired for the Indian Navy Aeronautics Defense Systems Aerostar:
undertake long-endurance missions, under the US Foreign Military Sales The TNI-AU operates an Israeli-made
including communications relay, ISR, (FMS) programme. Capable of operating tactical UAV that features a stabilised,
maritime patrol, as well as artillery fire at a maximum altitude of over 15,000m, gimbal-mounted day/night electro-
direction and battle damage assessment the turboprop powered Guardian is fitted optic sensor, and a CommTact datalink.
(BDA). In 2012, the agency suggested with a Raytheon SeaVue multimode It is powered by a 38hp Zanzottera
that a strike capability involving the maritime radar under its belly that piston engine with a two-blade pusher
integration of the Helina missile – an provides wide-area maritime ISR propeller, enabling it to reach a service
air-launched variant of the Nag anti- coverage for 27 hours. In July 2018, the US ceiling of 5,500m and an operational
tank guided missile currently under government reportedly approved the sale radius of 200km with an endurance of 14
development – could be pursued at of these air vehicles to India, with local hours. This type is being operated by the
some stage. Following its maiden flight media sources suggesting that the Modi service’s Aviation Squadron 51 based near
in November 2016, Rustom II has been administration is planning to conclude a the city of Pontianak in West Kalimantan.
renamed the Tactical Air-Borne Platform deal within 2019, should he be re-elected.
for Surveillance-Beyond Horizon 201 PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI)/Agency
(TAPAS BH 201) and is expected to be HAL Unmanned Wingman: The for the Assessment and Application
employed primarily as an ISR platform. Unmanned Wingman programme adopts of Technology (BPPT) Wulung: The
a similar configuration with the US XQ- Wulung UAV programme, which began
DRDO Nishant: Work on the catapult- 58A Valkyrie and is currently envisaged in 2004, originally sought to produce an
launched Nishant multirole tactical UAV as a low-observable, multirole unmanned indigenously developed UAV to perform
began in the mid-1990s with its maiden combat air vehicle with a flight endurance a variety of civilian missions across
flight in 2008. Four of these systems were of up to 80 minutes and powered by the the country’s extensive archipelagic
acquired by the Indian Army in 2011, indigenously developed HAL PTAE 7 territory, from illegal fishing and logging
although a series of crashes between 2013 turbojet engine with a cruise speed of 466 surveillance to cloud-seeding missions
and 2015 prompted the service to cease knots (Mach 0.7), and a combat radius and supporting firefighting activities. The
acquisition of the system. A conventional of up to 400km. The air vehicle can be TNI subsequently requested an improved
take-off and landing variant with a directed by a combat aircraft at distances variant with increased endurance
wheeled undercarriage, designated of up to 200km, with a possible candidate and range for potential intelligence,
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surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) can perform persistent ISR and early to acquire long-lead materials for three
missions. PTDI is understood to have warning missions across it vast maritime Global Hawk Block 30s, two ground
delivered up to 11 Wulung UAVs to the domain and airspace. control elements, as well as spares and
TNI-AU by end of 2015. site survey. Japan firmed up its order
Fielded Capabilities in November 2018, awarding a $489.9
UMS Skeldar V-200: Indonesia became Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle: The March million contract to the company for the
the first customer of UMS Skeldar to 2011 earthquake and ensuing tsunami three air vehicles. These will be equipped
receive a heavy fuel variant of the Skeldar and nuclear crisis prompted the Japan with the Raytheon Enhanced Integrated
V-200 VTOL UAV, with the Ministry of Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) to Sensor Suite (EISS) – which comprises
Defence (MoD) deploying the air vehicle improve its humanitarian assistance EO/IR, synthetic aperture radar, and
for performance and acceptance tests in and disaster relief (HADR) and ISR ground moving target indicator systems
late 2016 ahead of potential acquisition capabilities, awarding a contract with – and to be delivered by 1 September 2022.
and pilot training. The number of Skeldar then Insitu Pacific to deliver a ScanEagle The Japanese government is also selecting
V-200s delivered to Indonesia remains UAV via Mitsubishi Heavy Industries a base for the UAVs, which is anticipated
undisclosed. (MHI) for operational testing. The system to be Misawa Air Base in northern Japan.
was developed and tested by Insitu
Under Development/Consideration/ Pacific in collaboration with MHI to meet Subaru IR-OPV: Subaru is developing
Trials Japanese spectrum requirements and was three optionally piloted vehicles. Based
UMS Skeldar Rajawali-330/F-330: delivered by May 2013. on the Japan Maritime Self-Defense
The Indonesian Army (TNI-Angkatan Force’s (JMSDF’s) Fuji T-5 (KM-2Kai)
Darat, TNI-AD) acquired three fixed- Subaru FFOS: Development of a turboprop-driven primary trainer,
wing Rajawali-330 surveillance and rotary UAV for the JGSDF for target the IR-OPV is an all-metal low-wing
reconnaissance UAVs and associated acquisition, artillery fire-control, and cantilever monoplane powered by an
equipment under a 2015 contract. The air BDA commenced in 1991. Known as the Allison 250-B17D turboprop with a three-
vehicle – which is equipped with an EO/ Forward-Flying Observation System bladed constant speed propeller. Under
IR camera, a hyper-spectral camera, and (FFOS), a prototype performed its maiden a March 2016 government contract,
a mapping camera with light detection flight in December 1993 and trialled for Subaru integrated an EO/IR sensor and
and ranging (LIDAR) capabilities – is a the Technical Research and Development an “advanced” flight control system
derivative of the F-330 and is being co- Institute (TRDI) until 1997. The FFOS aboard one of the prototypes, with first
developed under licence by Indonesian carries a daylight TV or FLIR sensor flight achieved in October 2018 before
defence manufacturer PT Bhinneka Dwi mounted under the fuselage and can also delivery to the Acquisition, Technology &
Persada (BDP). Training was conducted be equipped with a laser rangefinder. Logistics Agency (ATLA). Future testing
from April 2016, with all three air vehicles will be performed by the agency.
believed to be delivered by mid-2016. Yamaha R-MAX Mk IIG: A rotary UAV
first developed as the R-50 from 1983 PAKISTAN
PT Indo Pacific Communication & for commercial agriculture and entered Pakistan has attempted to acquire
Defence (IPCD) Tactical UAV: The hand- service in 1991. The more advanced Western made UAVs since the early 2000s,
launched Tactical UAV was first unveiled R-MAX featuring an improved engine, but it was not until 2006 before it acquired
by IPCD at the 2014 Indo Defence flight stability, and safety functions was the German-made Luna and Italian Falco
exhibition in Jakarta. The air vehicle, introduced in late 1997. An evolved UAVs. Concerted efforts to develop its
which typically carries a high-definition version, G-1, was introduced in October indigenous UAV production capabilities
camera, is backpack transportable and 2005 and certified in January 2008. This have also borne fruit, with a number of
is operated by a two-person team. It is was followed by a military variant, the domestically produced systems already
believed that several of these examples MkIIG, which entered service with the in service with the Pakistan armed forces.
were trialled by the Komando Pasukan JGSDF and deployed for peacekeeping
Khusus (KOPASSUS/Special Forces missions in Iraq in 2005. Fielded Capabilities
Command) in mid-2014. Advanced Computer Engineering
Under Development/Consideration/ Services (ACES) Uqab II: The Uqab
JAPAN Trials II is a tactical short-range UAV system
Although the Japan Self-Defense Force Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global developed from the Eagle Eye and has an
(JSDF) is widely seen as one of the most Hawk: In December 2013, the Japanese operational range of 150km and a ceiling
technologically advanced defence forces MoD confirmed plans to purchase three of 10,000ft. It is fitted with a pan-tilt-zoom
in the Asia Pacific, it is interesting to RQ-4 Global Hawk HALE UAVs, and camera and can downlink digital video
note that its present UAV capabilities announced its firm decision in January in real time. The Uqab UAVs have GPS-
have been for many years comparatively 2015. This was followed by a US Defense based navigation and tracking systems
modest compared to regional peers such Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) that can be pre-programmed and altered
as China and South Korea. announcement in November detailing during flight. They can also operate under
However, since 2014 the country the request and potential sale of three manual control and use conventional
has outlined a series of initiatives to RQ-4 Block 30i (international) air vehicles take-off and landing.
grow its indigenous UAV development to Japan at an estimated cost of $1.2
capabilities, with the aim of introducing billion. In October 2017, Northrop Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle: Pakistan
new and more capable air vehicles that Grumman signed a $130 million contract has acquired an unspecified number of
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Under Development/Consideration/
JR Ng
Trials
Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC)
ZF-1 Viper: Promotional material of the
ZF-1 Viper stealthy unmanned combat air
vehicle (UCAV) concept emerged in May
2019, depicting a blended wing design
with a 18m wingspan and a 16,000kg
MTOW, which is expected to achieve a
maximum speed of 533kts (988km/h)
and a service ceiling in excess of 30,000ft,
while carrying a 300 kg payload up to a
range of 500km. The concept is aimed
at performing deep penetration and
suppression of enemy air defences, as
well as reconnaissance and electronic
warfare. The effort is part of Pakistan’s
‘Project Azm’ which seeks to develop next-
generation military aviation capabilities.
PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Chinese industry has introduced scores of
unmanned systems over the past decade,
mainly produced by state-owned defence
primes such as the Aviation Industry
China’s AVIC Wing Loong/Gongju-2.
Corporation of China (AVIC) and
CASC, although the number of private
ScanEagle UAVs under a $15 million a 14 hour endurance, although this can be firms involved in military and dual-use
FMS contract awarded in September 2015. further extended via command handover UAV development has also increased
The contract, which emerged after nearly between ground control stations (GCS). significantly. Indeed, the US Department
seven years since the country expressed its Deliveries of the Falco to the Pakistan Air of Defense (DoD) believes that the
interest in the air vehicle, was handled via Force is believed to have been completed country could manufacture as many as
the US Naval Air Systems Command and in 2008 with service entry in 2009. 41,800 UAVs worth over $10 billion by
is believed to cover up to 30 systems if all 2023, with the majority of these acquired
options were fully exercised. Deliveries Global Industry and Defence Solutions by the military.
of the ScanEagles commenced from the (GIDS) Burraq: Claimed to be a fully The DoD also believes that the
third quarter of 2016 to the Pakistan Navy. indigenous development by the state- development and acquisition of longer-
owned National Engineering and range UAVs will increase the People’s
CASC CH-3: At least 20 CH-3 UAV Scientific Commission (NESCOM), the Liberation Army’s (PLA’s) ability to
systems are believed to have been Burraq appears to be heavily inspired by conduct long-range reconnaissance
delivered to Pakistan in 2011. See earlier the Chinese-made CH-3 tactical UAV with and strike operations, with notable
entry for air vehicle details. its canard and swept-wing configuration developments such as the Wing Loong
and pusher-propeller propulsion (Pterodactyl) and Xianglong (Soaring
EMT Luna: The fixed-wing Luna is a arrangement. The Burraq entered service Dragon). Although information about the
short-range battlefield reconnaissance, with the Pakistan Air Force in November capabilities of in-service systems remains
surveillance, and target acquisition UAV 2013 and is equipped with two underwing shrouded in secrecy, these programmes
with a flight endurance of approximately hard points, which can be used to launch represent major advances in Chinese
six hours and an operational radius a variety of munitions including Barq technology.
of 100km. Potential payloads include laser-guided missiles. It is evident that Chinese developers
a daylight CCD camera with zoom, a are rapidly moving up the value chain,
thermal imager, or a miniature single Global Industry and Defence Solutions showcasing ambitious and sophisticated
aperture radar. At least three systems (GIDS) Shahpar: Adopting a similar flying wing UAV designs that incorporate
have been acquired for the Pakistan Army. airframe configuration with the Burraq, low-observable, large payload, and long
the Shahpar is optimised for ISR missions range capabilities at the most recent
Leonardo Falco: Originally developed and does not feature an offensive Airshow China exhibition in November
by Selex ES/Finmeccanica, the long capability. It is presently equipped with 2018.
range Falco UAV comprises a fuselage a four-stroke Rotax 912 ULS engine that
module that supports a fixed tricycle provides up to seven hours with an Fielded Capabilities
undercarriage, shoulder-mounted gull operating radius of 250km while carrying CASC CH-1: The short-range general-
wings and a rear-mounted pusher engine. a 50kg payload, although the company is purpose CH-1 entered production for the
The company states that the air vehicle planning to upgrade the air vehicle with a PLA’s artillery forces from around 2003.
has an operational radius of 200km and new and more powerful engine. The tactical UAV carries a 20kg payload
| june/july 2019 | 19
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UAV DIRECTORY
comprising a range of electro-optical Industry Group (HAIG) BZK-005: The which appears to be derived from the
sensors appropriate for its intended existence of the multirole BZK-005 MALE earlier ASN-206/207 design, is believed
missions, which include artillery fire UAV was first made known in 2006 in to have been acquired by the PLA
direction, battlefield damage assessment, a promotional video. Equipped with a Navy (PLAN), with several examples
as well as reconnaissance and surveillance satellite communications (SATCOM) reportedly sighted during a major
within a radius of 100km. datalink and carrying up to 150kg of naval exercise between Hainan and the
stores and equipment, the air vehicle Spratly Islands during July 2011 as a
CASC CH-2: The CH-2 medium-range can stay airborne for up to 40 hours shore-based surveillance platform and
general UAV is essentially a larger and and is specifically designed for long- communications relay.
night operations-capable air vehicle based range reconnaissance missions. The type
on the CH-1 design and was produced was confirmed in November 2018 to be Export-oriented systems
from 2005. The newer platform improves operational across the PLA’s air, land, Beihang Unmanned Aircraft System
on almost every aspect of its predecessor, and sea services for long-range COMINT, Technology TYW-1: The export-oriented
including an increased operating radius ISR, and electronic intelligence (ELINT) TYW-1 is a strike-capable MALE UAV
of 200km and an endurance of eight missions. An armed variant, designated derived from the in-service BZK-005
hours. An increased payload capacity of BZK-005C, was revealed to be under design. It reportedly features a 370kg
30kg enables the air vehicle to take on trials at the same time. payload capacity and is equipped with
a greater variety of roles, such as data four underwing hard points, with a flight
communications relay. Guizhou Aviation Industry Group endurance of up to 40 hours.
Xianglong (Soaring Dragon): The
AVIC Wing Loong-I/Gongji-1: Xianglong is believed to be the primary CASC CH-3: The CH-3 has found regional
Developed by AVIC’s Chengdu Aircraft HALE UAV operated by the PLAAF for success with Myanmar and Pakistan
Design and Research Institute (CADI) high-end ISR missions. Often compared to acquiring a number of these systems
subsidiary, the Wing Loong-1 is a MALE- the RQ-4 Global Hawk. The UAV debuted for armed reconnaissance missions.
class UAV that has a wingspan of 14m and as a concept at Airshow China 2006, The company has also developed
shares a close physical semblance to the with prototype reportedly performing civilian variants for applications such
US-made RQ-1 Predator. The air vehicle its maiden flight in 2009. Commercial as geological survey and low-level
– which is identified as the Gongji-1 (GJ- satellite imagery captured in February aerial mapping. Advanced flight control
1) in People’s Liberation Army Air Force 2018 showed at least two Xianglong UAVs technologies resulting from these efforts
(PLAAF) service – has a payload capacity deployed to the Lingshui naval airbase have also benefited its military systems.
of 200kg and can carry munitions, such as on Hainan Island: a strategic location for
the indigenous HJ-10 anti-armour missile, military operations in the South China Sea. CASC CH-4: Inspired by the US-made
CS/BBE2 50kg high-explosive bomb, and It is the third known operational location RQ-1 Predator, development of the
LS-6-50 small-diameter bomb. The Wing for the Xianglong, which have been seen MALE-class CH-4 UAV commenced in
Loong I is also being actively marketed operating from Shigatse airbase, which is 2009, with the first production-ready
for export, and has been acquired by in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China example rolled out in 2014. Glass fibre-
several countries including Egypt and near the disputed Doklam tri-junction, based composite materials are used
Kazakhstan. since August 2017, as well as Yishuntun extensively to reduce the overall weight
airbase in northeastern China in February of the air vehicle as well as its radar cross-
AVIC Wing Loong II/Gongji-2: Unveiled 2018. section (RCS). Two variants are currently
in its production-ready form at the 2016 offered: the CH-4A, which is configured
Airshow China Exhibition, the Wing Xi’an ASN Technical Group ASN-206: principally for reconnaissance missions
Loong II has an overall length of 11m and Development of the short-range tactical with a flight endurance of 30 hours; and
wingspan of 20.5m. The air vehicle has a ASN-206, which reportedly incorporated the strike-oriented CH-4B, which can
stated internal payload capacity of 200kg, technical assistance from Israeli firm carry a 345kg weapons payload but has
with provision for up to 480kg of external Tadiran Spectralink, began in December a shorter flight endurance of 14 hours. At
stores, and can operate for up to 20 hours. 1994 with serial production believed to least 30 CH-4s – valued at $700 million –
It reportedly made its maiden flight on have occurred from 1996. The ASN-206 have been exported worldwide since 2014.
27 February 2017, with AVIC announcing has a payload capacity of 50kg and has
that it had secured an unidentified an operational radius of 150km and flight CASC CH-5: Also unveiled in its
international customer on the same day. endurance of up to eight hours. production-ready form at Airshow China
The type was revealed in November 2016, the CH-5 features a lightweight all-
2018 to be in PLAAF service with the Xi’an ASN Technical Group ASN-207: composite airframe that measures 11.3m
in-service designation of Gongji-2 and The ASN-207 was revealed in 2002 and long with a wingspan of 21m and bears
is differentiated from the export variant is essentially a larger and more capable a striking resemblance to the US MQ-9
by the absence of winglets on the main version of the ASN-206, featuring a Reaper UAV. The company claims it can
wings. It has also found export success, 100kg stores carrying ability, a 600km carry a maximum payload of 1,200kg. The
with international customers including operational radius, and a 16 hour air vehicle has a stated flight endurance
Saudi Arabia and the UAE. endurance. of over 40 hours, although a heavy fuel
variant with an extended endurance
Beijing University of Aeronautics and Xi’an ASN Technical Group ASN-209: of 60 hours is under development. The
Astronautics (BUAA)/ Harbin Aircraft The ASN-209 multirole tactical UAV, company has specified an operating
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UAV DIRECTORY
will have a service ceiling of over 40,000ft.
JR Ng
It will also be be equipped with a secure
satellite communications datalink for
long-range operation.
Tengden Technology TB001 ‘Twin
Tailed Scorpion’: A new starter in
China’s UAV industry, Tengden took
the opportunity at the 14th China-
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Exposition in in Nanning in September
2017 to unveil its twin-engine, twin-boom
TB001 armed reconnaissance UAV. The
TB001 has a stated maximum range of
6,000km and an endurance of 35 hours,
and is equipped with two hard points
under each wing. State media reported
that the prototype air vehicle performed
its maiden flight just days after its public
unveiling in Nanning.
Zhong Tian Guide Control Technology
Company (ZT Guide) Feilong-1 (FL-1):
The FL-1 adopts a similar configuration
China’s CASC CH-7. to that of the CH-5, with a MTOW of
3,200kg with a payload capacity of
1,400kg inclusive of fuel. Two hard points
radius of 250km via line-of-sight control, AVIC’s China Helicopter Research and can be mounted under each wing, with
although this can be extended to 2,000km Development Institute (CHRDI), the each carrying up to 250kg of stores. The
when a SATCOM datalink is fitted. AV500W is a modified version of the type performed its maiden flight in
civilian model AV500 VTOL UAV with January 2019 following 18 months of
China Aerospace Science and Industry a more robust structure and improved R&D work by ZT Guide’s Zhong Tian Fei
Corporation (CASIC) WJ-600: The WJ- performance. The AV500W is stated to Long subsidiary.
600 is a high-speed, armed reconnaissance have a payload capacity of 160kg. This
UAV that adopts a form factor that is typically comprises a chin-mounted, PHILIPPINES
comparable to that of a cruise missile and stabilised electro-optical infrared sensor Despite engaged in decades of
is available with a turbojet (WJ-600) or turret as well as internally carried counterinsurgency (COIN) operations,
turbofan (WJ-600A) engine. It is believed payloads such as a synthetic aperture the modernisation of the Armed Forces of
to have been acquired by the PLAAF, radar (SAR) or communications relay the Philippines (AFP) has been hampered
although it has yet to be seen in operation systems. Weapons can also be carried on by a lack of funding and ineffective
despite multiple public appearances at its stub wings. policy. The Department of National
defence exhibitions around the world. Defense (DND) has in recent years made
However, the existence of operational CASC CH-4C: CASC is developing an significant efforts to boost AFP capability
WJ-600s was proven when at least improved variant of its widely exported and transform it from a COIN-oriented
two examples were displayed during CH-4 MALE UAV with an updated force into one that can undertake the
Turkmenistan’s Independence Day electronic architecture that will enable it full spectrum of military operations,
parade in October 2016. to carry more powerful mission payloads. which has seen its services benefit from
Designated the CH-4C, it has been seen a number of new acquisitions. The AFP
Under Development/Consideration/ carrying what appears to be an electronic initially adapted hobby drones for tactical
Trials warfare (EW) or signals intelligence ISR support, but has recently taken
AVIC Wing Loong I-D: State media (SIGINT) pod during flight trials in early delivery of US-made military systems.
reported in January 2018 that AVIC is 2018.
developing the Wing Loong I-D, an Fielded Capabilities
improved version of its Wing Loong I CASC CH-7: The CH-7 is a turbofan- AeroVironment RQ-11B Raven: The
UAV. It will feature a wider wingspan of powered high-altitude UCAV with a Philippine Army has taken delivery of
17.6 m and be able to carry up to 400kg MTOW of 13,000kg, which will be capable the RQ-11B Raven system comprising
of external stores. The type completed of carrying a range of payloads including three UAVs as part of a United States-
its maiden flight in December 2018, active and passive sensors and electronic supported counterterrorism support
signalling the end of its development and warfare systems, as well as precision air- programme. According to a US embassy
marking it ready for production. to-ground/surface missiles and guided announcement in February 2017, the
bombs. The air vehicle can achieve a high army will also receive operations and
AVIC AV500W: Under development by subsonic speed of 500kts (926km/h) and maintenance training.
| june/july 2019 | 21Regional
UAV DIRECTORY
Boeing-Insitu ScanEagle: The Philippines important element of the so-called ‹Kill hand-launched and recovered with an
was revealed to have acquired the Chain› integrated surveillance and strike air-bag cushion system. The electrically
ScanEagle UAV in a US Navy Naval system for detecting and neutralising powered air vehicle has an range and
Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) hostile missile launches from the DPRK. endurance of 10km and 60 minutes,
solicitation published in June 2017. In Beyond serving the needs of its and is equipped with a nose-mounted,
September 2017, the US Department of armed forces, the country aspires to be stabilised electro-optical infrared payload
State announced that the Philippines is one of the leading manufacturers and with pan and tilt scanning.
to receive a ScanEagle system comprising exporters of world-class UAV systems,
six UAVs by 2019. This was handed with key government agencies and IAI Heron 1: IAI announced in December
over to the Philippine Air Force during industry primes such as the Agency for 2014 that the South Korean Defense
a ceremony held at Villamor Air Base in Defense Development (ADD), Korea Acquisition Program Administration
Pasay City in March 2018. The system Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), (DAPA) selected its Heron 1 MALE UAV
is operated by 300 Air Intelligence and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), and for the RoK armed forces’ corps-level UAV
Security Wing (AISW) out of Antonio Korean Air Aerospace Division (KAL- requirement. An unspecified number
Bautista Air Base in Palawan. ASD) spearheading efforts to advance its of these air vehicles are understood to
UAV technology base. be operated by the RoKA. At least one
Philippine Army Research and of these air vehicles have been reported
Development Center (PARDC) Raptor: Fielded Capabilities performing reconnaissance missions over
Publicly unveiled at an AFP open house KAL-ASD Korean Unmanned System- the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ).
event in Camp Aguinaldo in December FT (KUS-FT) /RQ-102: KAL-ASD, a unit
2013, the Raptor is a fixed wing drone of the South Korean national airline Under Development/Consideration/
based on the airframe of a commercially specialising in military systems, secured Trials
available remote-controlled aircraft. It a contract from the Defense Acquisition KAI Next Corps Reconnaissance
has an endurance of around three hours Program Administration (DAPA) in UAV II, Tactical UAV, and unmanned
and carries a video camera that provides 2016 to manufacture the KUS-FT tactical combat air vehicle (UCAV): KAI is
real-time imagery and video out to an UAV system for the RoKA. The company developing a range of next-generation
operating radius of 3km. The Raptor was will deliver 16 complete systems – each UAV platforms positioned to meet the
first deployed during the Zamboanga comprising four UAVs – by the end of future requirements of the RoK armed
City crisis in September 2013. 2020. The RQ-101is designed for short forces. Detailed information on these
take-off and landing operations, and can developments have yet to be released.
Philippine Army Research and stay aloft for 24 hours. It is equipped with
Development Center (PARDC) Knight automatic target tracking capability with KAI Night Intruder 600 VT: KAI
Falcon: Similar to the Raptor, the Knight an effective range of up to 10 km. has launched an internally funded
Falcon is a fixed wing UAV that was programme to develop a VTOL UAV to
adapted from a commercial airframe, Daewoo/KAI RQ-101 ‘Night Intruder meet a possible RoKA requirement, with
although it is larger and features a longer 300’: The RQ-101 is the RoKA’s first flight trials expected to commence in 2019.
range of around 7 km. tactical-class UAV platform, which adopts The prototype air vehicle has an overall
a fixed-wing configuration and offers a length of 9m with a planned MTOW
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 120km operating radius with line-of-sight of 600-750 kg. KAI has incorporated
The Republic of Korea (RoK) is one control or up to 360km with ground relay patented anti-spoofing GPS systems to
of a handful of Asia Pacific countries stations. It has a payload capacity of 45kg improve its ability to operate in contested
that possess advanced aerospace which is dedicated to high-definition day EM environments.
industries and are pursuing wide and infrared sensors as well as a SAR
ranging unmanned aircraft system device. Deliveries are understood to have KAL-ASD KUS-FC: Very little is known
development programmes. At present, been completed by the end of 2004. about the stealth-optimised, turbojet-
the RoK’s military forces rely on a mix powered KUS-FC UCAV. The company
of indigenously developed systems – Elbit Systems Skylark II: Elbit’s has stated a wingspan of approximately
with the majority of these operating Skylark II is a larger and more capable 16 m and a flight endurance of 6 hours at
at the tactical level and below – from version of the hand-launched Skylark I the ADEX 2017 exhibition in Seoul, but
established international manufacturers with an endurance of six hours and an has withheld further information.
at the MALE-class and above, such as operational radius of approximately 59
IAI’s Heron I and Northrop Grumman km. The system typically comprises up to KAL-ASD KUS-FS: Previously known
RQ-4 Block 30 Global Hawk. two air vehicles, associated payloads, and as the Medium-Altitude UAV, the KUS-
Present domestic development efforts a truck-mounted rail launcher and GCS. FS MALE UAV is being developed for
largely centre on MALE-class platforms the RoKAF and is in the same class as the
for the Republic of Korea Air Force Foosung Group/UCON Systems US MQ-9 Reaper UAV. The multirole air
(RoKAF) and Republic of Korea Army Remoeye: The RoKA signed a contract vehicle is expected to perform missions
(RoKA), the introduction of an unmanned with Foosung Group for its RemoEye such as communications relay, electronic
combat air vehicle (UCAV) capability, as 002B mini-UAV in 2013, with deliveries warfare (EW), ISR, as well as signals
well as vertical take-off and landing of 120 systems – each comprising four intelligence (SIGINT). Images showing
(VTOL), and tiltrotor platforms. air vehicles – commencing in the third a prototype in flight reveal that it is also
UAVs are also expected to be an quarter of 2015. The RemoEye 002B is equipped with two hard points under
22 | Asian Military Review |Regional
UAV DIRECTORY
JR Ng
China’s prototype NCSIST Teng Yun.
each wing, indicating a potential strike will equip an RoKAF ISR unit. Delivery a $120 million contract inked in 2010. The
capability. Development of the air vehicle of the first two air vehicles was originally package included eight complete control
expected to be completed by end of scheduled in late 2018, although this has suites, each comprising a command
2018, which will then be transferred to since slipped to 2019 to improve its anti- post, GCS, launch and recovery system,
the RoKAF for operational testing and hacking system and cyber security. remote video terminal, and other support
evaluation. equipment. Three of these air vehicles
REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN) reportedly malfunctioned and were lost
KAL-ASD KUS-VH: KAL-ASD is The Republic of China Air Force (RoCAF) during routine operations and training
developing a rotary-wing unmanned has been reluctant to adopt unmanned in 2012, 2013, and 2016. Further work
platform based on the MD-500 light technologies, with no UAVs known to be is underway to improve reliability and
attack helicopter. Flight endurance currently in service. The country’s largest performance.
is extended to four hours with the and most capable UAV, the tactical-class
installation of a large fuel tank in place Chung Shyang II, is operated by the Under Development/Consideration/
of the rear passenger seats. If successfully Republic of China Army (RoCA). Trials
developed, the KUS-VH could potentially The country’s UAV development NCSIST Teng Yun: The prototype of a
support manned/unmanned-teaming efforts are being spearheaded by the new MALE-class UAV was revealed at
operations with the RoKA’s AH-64E National Chung-Shan Institute of Science the 2015 Taipei Aerospace & Defense
Apache Guardians, which already feature and Technology (NCSIST). Technology Exhibition (TADTE), which
the ability to command UAVs. appears to be modelled after the US
Fielded Capabilities RQ-1 Predator platform with proposed
KAL-ASD KUS-VT: An unmanned NCSIST Cardinal II: The Cardinal II mission sets including communications
tiltrotor aircraft developed jointly with is a small hand-launched UAV that is relay, persistent ISR operations, as well
the Korea Aerospace Research Institute understood to be in RoCA and Republic as coastal patrol and civilian research
(KARI) and based on the TR-60 system. of China Navy (RoCN) service. The air missions. In December 2017, President
The KUS-VT can carry a 30 kg payload vehicle is powered by an electric motor Tsai Ing-Wen announced that the air
and has an operational radius of 200 and can stay aloft for up to 60 minutes, vehicle, now designated Teng Yun (Cloud
km with an endurance of 6 hours. It is and is recovered via parachute-assisted Rider), would enter production. However,
expected to perform autonomous VTOL landing. An electro-optic camera enables the programme was subsequently delayed
and shipboard operations. it to capture ISR imagery. to 2020 to incorporate further updates on
RoCAF’s behest, including additional
Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global NCSIST Chung Shyang II: Also known external stores carrying capacity.
Hawk: The RoK has acquired four RQ-4 as the Albatross, the Chung Shyang
Block 30i Global Hawks along with two II is a reconnaissance platform that is SINGAPORE
GCS systems and two spare engines presently in RoCA service. Around 32 Singapore has been described by some
under a $657 million FMS contract, which UAVs were acquired for the army under observers as an ‘enthusiastic user’ of
| june/july 2019 | 23You can also read
