ST Aero Skyblade

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The Skyblade is a mini, man-portable UAV developed by ST Aerospace. It is designed to be used by two operators for short range, battlefield reconnaissance.

[edit] Models

  • Skyblade I: Prototype version
  • Skyblade II: Production version, gasoline engine
  • Skyblade III: Production version, all electric systems
  • Skyblade IV: New tactical UAV

The SkyBlade IV is completely new a short-range tactical UAV unveiled in Asian Aerospace 2006, with a takeoff weight of 50 kilograms (110 pounds), including a 12 kilogram (26 pound) payload, a torpedo-like fuselage, a straight high-mounted wing with upturned wingtips, cruciform tailfins and a pusher prop driven by a piston engine with an endurance of up to 12 hours. The UAV carries an EO-IR sensor system with STA working on a miniaturized SAR. The vehicle is catapult launched and is recovered via parachutes or catch nets.

[edit] Specifications (Skyblade II)

  • Length: 1.2 m (4 ft)
  • Wing span: 1.8 m (6 ft)
  • Operating altitude: 458 m (1500 ft)
  • Endurance (minimum) (depending on internal combustion or electric version): 1 – 2 hrs
  • Stall speed: 18 kts (33 km/h)
  • Maximum speed: 70 kts (130 km/h)
  • Operating wind conditions: 20 kts (37 km/h)
  • Head wind during take-off and landing: 15 kts (28 km/h)
  • Cross wind during take-off and landing: 10 kts (18 km/h)
  • Range: up to 8 km line-of-sight

[edit] References