Summary

Flexible low cost long endurance bilobe hybrid. A specific function surveillance hybrid air vehicle. The vehicles derive their flight capability from a mix of aerodynamic lift and Helium buoyancy.

Envelope

Laminated fabric construction hull with internal catenary system supporting the payload module. The hull’s aerodynamic shape, an elliptical cross-section allied to a cambered longitudinal shape, provides up to 40% of the vehicle’s lift. The internal diaphragms required to support this shape allow for a limited amount of compartmentalisation further enhancing the fail-safe nature of the vehicle. Multiple ballonets located fore and aft in each of the hulls provide pressure control.

Landing System

Profiled pneumatic tubes on the underside of the two outer hulls provide an amphibious capability. Tubes are ‘sucked-in’ for a clean-in-flight profile. System shares use of ballonet fans with hull pressure system.

Power Plant

4 x 170 hp 2 litre direct injection, diesel engines. Supercharged induction system. Two engines mounted forward on the hull and two on the stern of the hull for cruise operation. All four are configured in ducts with blown vanes to allow vectored thrust for take off/landing/ground handling operation.

Payload Module

Located on centerline; primary areas as follows:

Payload Module:

• 1 pilot station.
• Single pilot control.
• Large transparencies for excellent all-round visibility.
• Payload compartment.
• Fuel tanks

Flight Control

Optionally Manned, Remotely piloted, Autonomous