EADS is studying concepts for a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned air vehicle (UAV) derived from the Eurocopter EC120 Colibri helicopter.
The studies are linked to a German navy requirement for a VTOLUAV to equip its K130-class corvettes in place of the shelved EADS Seamos programme. EADS is also considering Seamos derivatives, but is awaiting navy guidance.
The navy is expected to conclude a reassessment of its VTOL needs by year-end, and is expected to emphasise cost and weight reductions over the earlier programme.
Seamos has a 1,100kg (2,425lb) maximum take-off weight, but the new requirement could specify half that. EADS says the EC120-derivative UAVs studied range between 230kg and 1,500kg.
Patrick Oswald, EADS Systems and Defence Electronics vice-president business development and exports, says that there are other opportunities in Japan and South-East Asia, while Australia could also become a target.
Source: Flight International
