Selex Sensors and Airborne Systems unveiled a model of its new Damselfly vertical take-off and landing unmanned air vehicle at the ParcAberporth Unmanned Systems 2007 exhibition in west Wales last week, but kept its flying prototype behind closed doors.
The Damselfly design incorporates a unique thrust vector control system, with each independently controlled nozzle containing steerable vanes that allow a further tier of control over efflux strength and direction. The UAV's wing has twin sensor pods mounted on the tips, and also incorporates flaps for control at speeds up to 150kt (280km/h).
Selex conducted the first flight of its electric-powered prototype in April and plans to convert the aircraft to support a gas powerplant for extensive flight testingat ParcAberporth from September.
Source: Flight International
