Poland's Lodz-based Military Aviation Works (WZL-1), together with the nation's Institute of Aviation (ILot) and Air Force Institute of Technology (ITWL) are close to completing their first demonstrator of the ILX-27 unmanned helicopter.
Three prototypes are being built, respectively for fatigue, ground and flight tests, with the first (below) to be completed at the WLZ-1 facility by the end of September. The organisation is responsible for the aircraft's mostly composite structure, while ITWL is developing its flight control system. Power comes from a 260shp (194kN) Lycoming O-540-F1B5 piston engine.
 |
|---|
WLZ-1 The first prototype ILX-27 airframe is nearing completion |
Primarily intended to support operations involving special forces personnel in urban areas and mountains, the ILX-27 will have a maximum take-off weight of about 1,100kg (2,420lb), including a 300kg payload.
Other applications could include reconnaissance, cargo transport, personnel evacuation, infrastructure monitoring and border patrol, while armaments such as rocket pods could also be added.
 |
|---|
ILot |
With a fuselage length of 7.74m (25.4ft), three-blade main rotor and shrouded five-blade tail rotor, the unmanned air system will have a maximum cruise speed of 116kt (215km/h) and a service ceiling of 13,900ft (4,240m).
Source: Flight International
