Unmanned Systems Technology 003 | UAV Solutions Talon 120 | Cable harnesses | Austro Engine AE50R and AE300 | Autonomous mining | AUVSI 2015 show report | Transponders | Space systems

as in the case of one of our customers.” It is worth noting that the increase in speed resulting from increasing power from 50-60% to maximum is extremely low given that speed increases with the cube root of additional power. The Talon 120 weighs about 16- 17 lb and can take off at an all-up weight of about 25 lb. It has a nominal payload capability of 2.5 lb. “The payload capability of the 120 was originally driven by the commercially available camera systems, which were in the 2.0-2.5 lb range,” remarks Davidson. “The camera we ended up manufacturing – the Dragon View – weighs less than 1.5 lb. “But we also wanted to be able to use additional payloads. We have the additional payload option in the belly pan, which can have a release mechanism. There was the thought that if we could deliver a cell phone, glow sticks and so on, that would work very well for search and rescue-type missions. “While 2.5 lb is a typical payload, the Talon 120 can accept up to 5 lb, but at the cost of endurance. With a 4.0-5.0 lb payload there would probably be a 20- 25% reduction in endurance. Overall, the Talon 120’s size does allow a bit of flexibility on the payload. Other systems in this size range – such as the Pumas and Ravens – don’t have that flexibility.” Davidson remarks that in accepting many different types of payload, the 120 is “like a truck – it is intended first and foremost as a workhorse”. It is also worth noting that it is assembled using mainly thumb screws, and by design can be dismantled without the use of a tool. Thus it can be taken apart by hand for ease of transportation in a compact case. As in the case of the rangers using it to track poachers in Africa, Talon 120 users find the craft affordable, capable and practical to use and maintain. In those respects it is the state of the art. A section of the 120 wing assembly