European provider of Rotary Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms, UMS SKELDAR, announced its flagship SKELDAR V-200 UAV platform has successfully performed an automatic take-off and landing (ATOL) from a ship. While full ATOL capability on land is a native characteristic of the V-200, UMS SKELDAR is the first company to achieve ATOL compliance in a naval setting. The development is currently being tested by NATO customers.
Previously, platforms have operated in assisted mode with a crew manually overseeing take-off and landing via a joystick or computer control. Now, full ATOL capability enables both take-off and landing to be performed through the simple press of a button. The platform uses a laser altimeter and GPS combination to track its location and calculate the required altitude reduction, culminating in a smooth and safe landing. In addition to this new capability, the SKELDAR V-200 continues to undergo both software and hardware developments to ensure continued improvement and maximum capability for customers.
David Willems, vice president for business development and strategy for UMS SKELDAR, said, “this latest milestone for UMS SKELDAR is a real first. It is unique to our company and it has never before been achieved in a military setting. The SKELDAR V-200 was conceived as a maritime platform and this exciting achievement secures its place as the first choice for Navy commanders. We are focused on the continued improvement of both SKELDAR UAV platforms. Our ongoing modernisation programmes aim to not only review the platforms’ capabilities, but also analyse customer requirements with a view to increasing the service suite we provide alongside.”
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