The DMO has released an invitation to register interest for a Navy Unmanned Aerial System (NUAS) to operate from the RAN’s Armidale class patrol boats.
The tender (DMOMSD/ITR0001/2014) states “The Commonwealth requires a fully integrated Naval Unmanned Aerial System (NUAS) capability on the Armidale Class Patrol Boat (ACPB)”, and suggests a fixed-wing type such as the Insitu ScanEagle or the AAI Aerosonde would be suitable.
The Navy has previously expressed interest in operating a NUAS from its patrol boats, and the manufacturer of the vessels, Austal, has displayed models of an Armidale with a ScanEagle launch and retrieve setup at previous Pacific naval expositions.
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Darren
says:I hope that this is not limited to the patrol boats. It should be standard fit for the AWD’s, ANZAC’s and LHD’s. A single system makes sense from training and support. UAV’s are a significant and important element in operations today and tomorrow. Let’s get on with it.
Fed
says:Navy use can off it new helicopter training ship their buying from Damen Shipyards (OPV) contact signed March 2014
Mark G
says:With you there Darren.
Spell check Fed. What are you talking about?
Raymond
says:Grammar check more like it… sounds like Fed is referring to a new aviation training and support ship / OPV ordered by the RAN which I was unaware of. Had to Google it; not too much info but this seems to be the root source: http://www.janes.com/article/35581/ran-acquires-damen-vessel-for-aviation-training