Proteus, the rotary-wing uncrewed aerial system (UAS) the size of a helicopter being developed by Leonardo for the Royal Navy, is nearing its maiden flight.
The fully autonomous drone is set to become one of the world’s first full-sized self-controlled helicopters, as per a Royal Navy press statement.
Ahead of its first flight the UAS was recently “flashed up” — meaning it has been started up and run without taking off, to ensure the integrity of its engines, rotors, and internal systems.
The £60 million Proteus Technology Demonstrator programme is being run out of Leonardo’s Yeovil facility, where the drone has been designed and built.
Envisioned initial tasks will include maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) patrols and dropping sonobuoy listening devices into the ocean on anti–submarine warfare (ASW) missions.
Head of Maritime Aviation and Carrier Strike in the Royal Navy’s Develop Directorate Captain David Gillett commented: “It’s been a huge pleasure to work with Leonardo and across Defence, as one team, to deliver Proteus.”
He added: “It combines cutting-edge technology, the experience of recent conflicts and has enormous potential to shape the Royal Navy’s future hybrid air wing.”
And Leonardo’s Managing Director Helicopters UK Nigel Colman said: “Proteus is equipped with cutting-edge onboard software capabilities, carrying a suite of sensors and systems that allow it to sense its environment, make decisions and act accordingly.
“All of this processing is conducted onboard the aircraft, while operating in the most extreme environments, including high sea states and strong winds — just where the Royal Navy needs this kind of capability.”
- You can read more details on the Royal Navy website and on the Leonardo website