Sagem has teamed with Tenix Defence Systems to compete for the Australian Army's Joint Project 129 tactical unmanned air vehicle requirement with the Sperwer. Tenix says the two companies have elected to team early to enable adaptation of the system to meet requirements. The JP129 requirement is expected to receive final approval before year end with funding targeted for inclusion in next May's Australian budget. Plans for an interim leased system have been abandoned, with a formal tender for acquisition instead expected to begin in the second half of next year. Also expected to compete are AAI, BAE Systems, General Atomics, Israel Aircraft Industries and Northrop Grumman.
Source: Flight International
