Unmanned Systems Technology 009 | Ocean Aero Submaran S10 | Simulation and testing | Farnborough report | 3W-110xi b2 TS HFE FI | USVs | Data storage | Eurosatory/UGS 2016 report

42 T he biennial Farnborough Airshow closed its doors after a successful week’s trading with organisers confirming that the show had recorded orders and options to the value of $123.9 billion, defying industry expectations. But there are changes afoot in this traditional celebration of the global aerospace industry – both here and at the sister show at La Bourget in Paris, there has been a perceptible growth in unmanned systems. For example, this year’s event saw the debut flight of Prospero, a UAV with graphene-skinned wings. The aircraft is a collaboration between two UK universities, the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC), and the University of Manchester’s National Graphene Institute. Billy Beggs of UCLan said, “Through our partnership with the National Graphene Institute, and alongside a number of Lancashire-based SMEs, we aim to develop a route map that enables graphene to play a key role in the future development of the aviation industry. “Through the data collected from initial flights, our research has now moved on to developing processes for infusing graphene into composite structures. The wings, produced by our industrial partner Haydale Composite Solutions, are enabling us to test the structural and weight-saving benefits of graphene. “Initial test data is very encouraging. In terms of impact resistance, the new wings are showing increased levels of impact resistance of up to 60% over a conventionally skinned carbon fibre wing. “This is the first demonstration of a UAV containing graphene components. The aim is to investigate the potential effects of graphene in drag reduction, Unmanned systems showed a growing presence at Farnborough this year. Mark Venables reports on some of the highlights Cleared for take-off August/September 2016 | Unmanned Systems Technology Visitors to this year’s show witnessed some key UAS announcements