Small UAVs Becoming More Capable

Were you followed? Bad guys everywhere will have a harder time answering that question soon. Cyber Defense Systems announced Thursday that its CyberScout™ UAV will soon be more capable with the addition of micro turbine engines.

The next generation UAV is expected to use three small turbines to take off vertically, and fly over 100 miles per hour. It should weigh about 21 pounds empty, and have a two to three pound payload. The payload could include cameras, sensors, weapons, or instruments to perform surveillance and other missions.

The company believes the military, law enforcement and drug interdiction services will be prime customers. The aircraft has flown and demonstrated vertical and horizontal flight. The ability of the aircraft to takeoff and land vertically will be useful in remote areas. Start saving now if you'd like to get one. The company projects the craft will cost about $150,000.

If you don't need a UAV that flies so fast, the company is also offering CyberBugs™ that can fly up to four hours with payloads over six pounds. Cyber Defense Systems is working to extend the flight time to eight hours or more. These scalable aircraft look like a torpedo under a hang glider. One advantage is the rapid assembly and deployment time of only 30 seconds. Basic units include an autopilot, datalink with GPS overlay, and various camera options starting at $7,500.

FMI: www.cyberdefensesystems.com