The BAE Systems GA22 is an unmanned airship demonstrator programme in response to a need for low cost, long endurance UAV platform. Lindstrand Technologies is a major contributor to the programme.[1][2]
| GA22 | |
|---|---|
| Role | UAV |
| National origin | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems |
Development
editThe original design has been updated allowing it to carry payloads such as high-tech surveillance equipment up to 150kg (330.69lbs) in weight and to heights of more than 6,500ft (1981.2m).[3] The GA22 is also being made from newer and lighter materials in an aim to improve its performance. As of 2008 the airship is radio controlled, but BAE plan to make it fully autonomous.
BAE believe that the redevelopment of the airship will allow it to be deployed into a diverse range of roles such as monitoring forest fires or acting as communications relay station.[3]
- Length: 24m (78.74ft)
- Width: 7.8m (25.59ft)
- Height: 9m (29.53ft)
- Max takeoff weight: 720kg (1587.33lbs)
- Cruising flight speed: 50km/h (31.07mph)
- Max flight speed: 60km/h (37.28mph)
See also
editRelated development
Related lists
References
edit- ^ "BAE Systems floats autonomous system at Farnborough International". www.baesystems.com. 14 July 2008. Archived from the original on 30 July 2008. Retrieved 30 July 2008.
- ^ "BAE's GA22 unmanned blimp makes its debut". www.engadget.com. 15 July 2008. Archived from the original on 1 August 2008. Retrieved 30 July 2008.
- ^ a b "Autonomous airships". The Engineer. 14 July 2008. Retrieved 15 December 2024.
- ^ "GA22 specifications".
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