King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) spearheading aerospace capability development of Saudi Arabia has unveiled ...
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) spearheading aerospace capability development of Saudi Arabia has unveiled drones based on manned aircraft.
Dubbed "Al-Nawras"(Gull), the drone is based on the manned Pipistrel Virus microlight aircraft platform, equipped with flight control systems that can be controlled from ground.
Three prototypes of the Al Nawras drone were revealed each configured for different missions, and can flying joint coordinated missions.
While one drone can be used for jamming electronic signals, the other two can be used for aerial surveillance and tactical ground strike missions.
One of the prototype unveiled is equipped with under wing pylons that can be used to carry weapons.
With an endurance of 30 hours, the drones are satellite controlled and can be equipped with day and night high resolution cameras for surveillance missions.
The Pipistrel Virus is a Slovenian manufactured microlight aircraft extensively used for pilot training, powered by a 80 hp or 100 hp Rotax 912 piston engine. It have a high-wing, cantilever monoplane of pod-and-boom configuration with a T-tail and air brakes.
The cabin has two seats side-by-side. Its fixed undercarriage can be provided in either tricycle or tailwheel configuration.
KACST had earlier unveiled the long range Saqr 1 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle capable of carrying out combat and surveillance missions, claimed to be indigenously developed.
KACST also funded the development of the westernized version of the Soviet era Antonov An-32 turboprop airlifter, dubbed AN-132 with Ukraine.
