Image source: topwar.ru
The French company Safran has been developing the Patroller tactical reconnaissance drone for 8 years.
The difficulties were caused, in particular, by the loss of a drone during tests in December 2019. Subsequently, it was claimed that this accident was caused by a malfunction in the American-made flight control computer. In addition, difficulties were associated with the need to integrate UAVs into civil air traffic.
As noted in the Opex360 edition, after years of delays, Patroller deliveries to the troops began. The 61st Artillery Regiment recently received the first serial drone, the second is planned to be transferred this summer, and two more will follow in the fall. In total, the army will be supplied with 5 Patroller complexes, each of which will consist of 5 UAVs and 2 ground stations.
However, according to the author, during the refinement of the drone, the war in Ukraine unfolded, which showed that the relevance of such a drone as the Patroller is no longer so obvious.
- Safran stated.
Image source: topwar.ru
As indicated in the publication, in any case, the Patroller will allow the army to restore some of the capabilities that it had to abandon, for example, radar surveillance of the battlefield, which was previously provided by the Cougar Horizon helicopter.
The Patroller, based on the German Stemme S15 motor glider, can fly at an altitude of 6,000 meters for at least 14 hours. It is equipped with the Euroflir 410 optoelectronic system, a laser targeting unit, electronic warfare equipment and a PicoSAR radar with AFAR. Optionally, the placement of percussion instruments is provided. The range is 180 km (1000 km with satellite communications), the flight speed is 100-200 km/h, the payload is 210 kg.
- the army command says.
