PAUL LEWIS / WASHINGTON DC
SA2-37B could fly covert surveillance in hostile environments without two-man crew
Schweizer Aircraft is studying development of an unmanned version of its SA2-37B airborne sensor aircraft for use on covert surveillance missions over hostile territory considered too risky for the relatively slow-flying machine's two-man crew.
The SA2-37B, with its 19.6m (64ft) wingspan, was developed from the SGM2-37 motor glider and relies on its extremely low acoustic signature for survival. "We're looking at offering an unmanned version," says company president Paul Schweizer, adding that it represents an "intriguing possibility" for operating in hostile environments.
Compared to smaller unmanned air vehicles (UAV), the SA2-37B combines a large payload capacity with long range and endurance. A mission bay aft of the side-by-side cockpit is able to accommodate palletised forward-looking infrared, electro-optical and electronic sensors. Removing the weight of the crew could further increase the machine's range or payload.
The US Central Intelligence Agency operates at least three SA2-37Bs and has in the past employed the aircraft as a communications relay for long-range UAVs, as well as for target identification operations in the Balkans. Other known operators include Columbia and the US Army, plus a number of unidentified users.
An unmanned SA2-37B could draw on Schweizer's experience of the Northrop Grumman-led RQ-8A Fire Scout rotary-wing UAV programme for the US Navy. The Fire Scout is based on the Schweizer Model 379 platform developed from the Schweizer 333 four-seat civil turbine helicopter.
Source: Flight International
