Mantis, which first flew in 2009, will form the basis of an iterative programme, Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) BEA Systems
Mantis, which first flew in 2009, will form the basis of an iterative programme that will exploit the capabilities and experience from both our company and Dassault Aviation from this and other related programmes. The two companies are carrying out preparatory work and have established a joint team. Once the two governments have issued their common requirements, the joint team will develop a comprehensive proposal for delivering the capabilities required at a competitive cost. The BAE Systems Mantis Unmanned Autonomous System Advanced Concept Technology Demonstrator is a British demonstrator programme for Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) technology. The Mantis is a twin-engined turboprop-powered UCAV with a wingspan of approximately 22 m, broadly comparable to the MQ-9 Reaper. Other partners involved in Phase 1 of the Mantis programme include the UK Ministry of Defence. While America has had its fair share of fun with unmanned crafts, the Mantis drone is Britain’s answer to the future of combat in the UK. With the upcoming 2013 trial ensuring that the drone will be ready for war, we can be proud of a British-made system finally coming to fruition that will help protect our shores, or spy on us from above depending on your paranoia level. The Ministry of Defence has showcased current and next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). A new squadron of drones, known as Reapers, are due to be controlled from RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire. The MoD said the Reaper's primary purpose was to provide combat and surveillance intelligence. Reaper drones are armed with laser guided bombs and Hellfire missiles. The MoD said the Reaper was not an autonomous system and did not have the capability to employ weapons unless it was commanded to do so by the flight crew. It said the drone was bound by the same rules of engagement as a manned aircraft.
Size: 5200px × 3472px
Location: RAF Waddington 2010 Air Show - Public Place.
Photo credit: © Steve Welsh / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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