Australia's Seabird Aviation has launched the flight test programmes of two new versions of its Seeker patrol and surveillance aircraft.
The new SB7L-360A3 version is described by the manufacturer as a "huge step [forward] in terms of technology".
It features new engines for hot and high performance, an increased maximum take off weight (MTOW) and structural modifications to support larger sensor suites and a glass cockpit.
The -A3 is powered by a 210hp (156kW) Lycoming IO-390A1B6 engine with twin 70 amp alternators. It also has a full glass cockpit with Garmin's G500 electronic flight instruments and L3's E-2000 Trilogy as backup and an auto pilot and yaw trim.
In addition, MTOW is increased to 974kg, an under-fuselage universal sensor pod is installed, it has an isolated electrical system - independent of the primary electrical system - to power sensors and other equipment and features ultra-bright, low-current landing, taxi, position and anti-collision lights.
Launch customer for the -A3 is Queensland electricity provider Ergon Energy, which has ordered two of the type for delivery later this year.
The Queensland-based manufacturer has also recently conducted the first flight of the -A2 version, which features the 210hp Lycoming IO-390A1A6 engine, instead of the -A model's standard 168hp Lycoming O-360B2C.
It also uncludes a digital Auracle CRM-2100 engine management system, replacing the -A's analogue engine gauges.
A spin chute has been fitted to the aircraft to allow the spin test programme to start, said the manufacturer.
Meanwhile, with the redevelopment of the Seeker under way, Seabird is relaunching a project to develop a piloted autonomous flight vehicle (PAV) version of the Seeker, which would combine the best of piloted aircraft with a pre-programmed autonomous waypoint navigation flight mode capability, said the manufacturer.
The PAV would require piloted take off and landing, but in a surveillance role once the aircraft reaches its survey area the autonomous mode would be activated, with the aircraft following a pre-programmed precision flight profile.
This would allow the pilot to focus on surveying, and removes the requirement for an additional operator on board.
A PAV would be a cheaper option for law enforcement and disaster relief, for example, than unmanned air vehicles, Seabird said.
Source: Flight International
