Tactical VTOL Prototype Hoped to Become Sovereign Ozzie Platform

BAE Systems unveiled the Strix, their contender for the tactical, multi-role UAS running at this year's Avalon Airshow.

The Strix is a tandem wing, VTOL drone capable of hauling 160 kg (~353 lbs) of payload almost 500 miles, while being compacted down into a standard 20' shipping container. Compatible munitions will vary, but the principal interest is the RAZER, a low-cost, precision guided munition that would be delivered with the final design. The Strix VMS has already been used in other BAE projects for guidance, being used in the Australian Army's autonomous M113 program, the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone, and more. 

Overall, the Strix appears to be first and foremost a domestic Australian project, designed to "increase Australian sovereign capability by leveraging domestic expertise" wherever possible. Currently, Innovaero's concepting and prototyping has carried the project, but BAE says that plenty of work remains for interested SME's and academics to get involved in development, delivery, and flight testing. 

“STRIX leverages existing, proven technologies to provide an affordable and cost effective capability that is mission configurable and upgradable in response to emerging technologies or threats.
 
“STRIX could be ready for operational service as soon as 2026 and work is already underway on a STRIX prototype. We’re excited that this is the first UAS of its kind to be developed in Australia and look forward to working with partners across the country to deliver this capability to customers.” 

FMI: www.baesystems.com