SubscribeThis article highlights how defence and security missions ranging from reconnaissance and surveillance to NBC assessment and fire control can be fulfilled with MASS mini-UAV by Patria.
Modular mini-UAV for defence and security
Patria MASS Mini-UAV is a multi-mission unmanned aerial vehicle system for defence and security applications such as reconnaissance, surveillance, border control and rescue operations. With the multiple payload options ranging from stabilized, 360 degree turning EO and IR cameras to Nuclear and Chemical detectors, the system offers enhanced situational awareness in real time for both military and civil authorities. No dedicated piloting skills are needed as the system can be operated fully autonomously.
Autonomous, easy to use UAV
All the functions and operations of the UAV are controlled via the Ground Control Station's Mission Control Software developed by Patria. The software enables e.g. mission planning by marking waypoints on a digital map display as well as monitoring and controlling/updating the mission in real time.
Taking manual control, updating the waypoints or controlling the payloads are all possible during flight. The system transmits the data gathered by the UAV payloads, e.g. live video feed to the Ground Control Station via a robust digital data link. In addition to the live data provided to the end user, all transmitted data is also recorded in the Ground Control Station for later exploitation.
UAV as an integrated solution
Depending on the scenario, MASS system can be utilized for surveillance/early warning, reconnaissance, more detailed detection based on early warning of other systems or all of the above.
The payload data, both images as well as emission information can be assessed directly at the Ground Control Station or it can be distributed e.g. via a trunk network to other command posts or systems as well. The standard interfaces of the Ground Control Station enable flexible integration and data transfer to external systems.
In addition to the more traditional stand-alone role of small UAVs, MASS has also been designed to function as an integrated solution with other applications.
Demonstrated applications include rapidly deployable visual identification based on Unattended Ground Sensor alarms, target acquisition and Battle Damage Assessment for mortar systems and transmitting data for mission and route planning to armoured vehicle Battle Management Systems.
Main characteristics
System portable by two persons on foot consisting of:
- 1 - 3 UAVs.
- Modular payload options: EO, IR as well as Nuclear and Chemical sensors.
- Ground control station on a ruggedized laptop-PC.
- Telescopic antenna mast with directional antenna.
- Launch equipment; bungee cord or optional catapult.
- Batteries and spares.
- The UAV can be disassembled either into a more mobile and rapidly deployable backpack configuration of 2 UAVs or a larger, more rugged transport case of 3 UAVs. The ground control station is also portable in a backpack, including also batteries, spares and all other accessories.
- Overall weight for the backpack configuration (UAVs + ground control station) is less than 40 kg.
- No tools are needed for assembly/disassembly of the UAV.
- System deployment, turnaround and packing times are all respectively approximately 8 minutes.
Dimensions
- Empty mass 3 kg.
- Payload capacity 0,5 kg.
- Wing span 1,5 m.
- Length 1,05 m.
Performance
- Operating time 60 - 75 minutes.
- Operating range over 10 km.
- Maximum speed 120 km/h.
- Maximum ascend rate 5 m/s.
- Optimal flight altitude 50 - 150 m.
- Optimal flight speed 60 km/h.
- Stall speed 40 km/h.
Patria Aviation Oy / Systems
Naulakatu 3
FI-33100 Tampere
FINLAND
systems@patria.fi
www.patria.fi
Tel: + 358 20 4691
Fax: +358 20 469 2694
