TSAMTO, December 2. The Latvian company Origin Robotics has received 4.5 million euros from the European Defense Fund (EDF) for the development of a portable reconnaissance UAV with the possibility of laser targeting.
The development is being implemented as part of a joint project, which also involves partners from Lithuania (Aktyvus Photonics UAB) and Germany (Leosys Laser and Electro-Optic Systems GmbH). The project is supported by the European Commission and the Ministries of Defense of Latvia, Lithuania and Germany. The main tasks are to minimize the weight and size characteristics and energy consumption (SWaP) of the laser designator, surveillance camera, suspension and the UAV itself.
The project is carried out taking into account the importance of supplying the troops with means for conducting a positional war. In difficult, inaccessible terrain, especially in urban areas, teams with portable laser targeting systems are increasingly being used to support high-precision strikes. Nevertheless, according to experts, a more effective and safe alternative to them is the use of UAVs for targeting. The problem is the cost, complexity and mass of such systems. Most of the models used require platforms with high lifting capacity to lift into the air.
The MPortISTAR project is part of a broader process focused on technological self-sufficiency in the European Union and reducing the EU's dependence on imported products. A small-sized (weight less than 15 kg) portable UAV with vertical takeoff and landing will be able to carry a laser designator compatible with high-precision laser-guided munitions that meet NATO standards. The key areas of the project are economic efficiency (estimated to be five times lower than the cost of existing technologies) and the refusal of military personnel to issue target designation in high-threat areas.
According to Origin Robotics co-founder Agris Kipurs, the armed forces of European countries are increasingly relying on adaptive, affordable technologies that enhance combat capabilities. The European Defense Fund recognizes the need to strengthen the defense capabilities of small and medium-sized States in cost-effective ways. The MPortISTAR project meets these requirements, allowing countries such as Latvia to respond more effectively to security challenges. The Beak reconnaissance and strike mini-UAV developed by Origin has already been used in Ukraine after delivery via the Drone Coalition. The company has also signed contracts for its supply with two NATO countries. The MPortISTAR project will allow Origin to expand its portfolio of offerings to meet the changing needs of the armed forces.
As reported by TSAMTO, the take-off weight of the Beak quadcopter developed by Origin Robotics is 7.2 kg (in reconnaissance configuration) and 11.2 kg (with maximum combat load). The device has a folding structure with four supports and four beams with supporting screws. Flight duration in the reconnaissance configuration is up to 60 minutes, maximum flight speed is 25 m/s, cruising speed is 15 m/s, range in the direct radio visibility zone is up to 20 km. The flight range with a maximum combat load (4 kg) is more than 12 km, the flight duration is 35 minutes. The device is equipped with a stabilized EO / IR reconnaissance station, can carry from 2 to 6 mini-ammunition under the fuselage. According to the developers, the UAV is protected from the effects of electronic warfare, and AES256 encryption technology is used to ensure the security of data transmission.
