Partnership to explore UAV integration on Spanish Navy helicopter carrier
Spanish shipbuilder Navantia and aerospace technology company Airbus have entered into an agreement to explore the possible integration of a new type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into the Spanish Navy's flagship, the helicopter carrier Juan Carlos I.
The integration activities will focus on command and control; combat system integration; and navigation support including take-off and landing operations.
This joint effort seeks to achieve a fully integrated system, ensuring complete compatibility between Airbus' SIRTAP UAV and the helicopter carrier, increasing mission capabilities, operational flexibility, and the overall effectiveness of both platforms.
Developed as a high-end tactical UAV, SIRTAP will be capable of simultaneously integrating two payloads, such as an electro-optical turret and a multi-mission radar.
SIRTAP will be able to operate in a broad range of weather conditions, thanks to an ice protection and high temperature amplitude system. With an endurance of more than 20 hours, the UAV is suitable for day/night and maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, providing rapid response for close target inspection.
