PESCO PROJECTS

Rotorcraft Docking Station for Drones

The project objective is to provide the MoDs with a new capability to launch, operate, and recover large numbers of small (mini-micro) Unmanned Air Systems (UASs) from rotorcraft platforms.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Provide the MoDs with a new capability, that will enhance rotorcraft effectiveness and survivability, through the development of a system capable to launch, operate, and recover large numbers of small (mini-micro) Unmanned Air Systems (UASs) from rotorcraft platforms.

The coordinated, distributed capabilities could provide an improved operational flexibility. Short-term objective is to develop and produce a docking system designed for rotorcraft, capable of launching and retrieving for reuse mini-micro UASs (used as sensors and/or weapons).

OBJECTIVES/PRODUCTS

The system will allow Teaming & Interoperability between Manned rotorcraft and Unmanned vehicle enabling the following:

• launching of small (mini-micro) drones (expendable and attainable);
• managing swarms of drones;
• recovering small (mini-micro) drones.

The rotorcraft docking station will expand the potential uses of unmanned air vehicles, enhancing their range and permitting the sharing of information at low altitude and short range.

Overall, the system, when implemented, will increase the effectiveness of the rotorcraft.