Unmanned Systems Technology 014 | Quantum Tron | Radio links and telemetry | Unmanned Aerial Vehicles | Protonex fuel cell | Ancillary systems | AUVSI 2017 Show report

An innovative vertical take-off UAV that could compete with helicopters has completed initial test flights in the US (writes Nick Flaherty). The XV-24 tilt-wing UAV is being developed for the US DARPA research agency and the US Air Force by Aurora Flight Sciences. The tests have been on a 1:5 model weighing 325 lb. The aim is to achieve a horizontal flight speed of 300-400 knots – twice the speed of a helicopter – with a full-scale craft while retaining a VTOL capability. A key part of the design is an electric distributed propulsion system, a first for an aircraft. This uses 24 variable-pitch ducted fans driven by electric motors to provide thrust for hovering as well as horizontal flight. A single Rolls-Royce AE 1107C turboshaft engine drives three Honeywell generators, which provide power to the wing actuators and electric motors. This required the development of a synchronous electric drive system. The full-scale craft will be built over the next 24 months. Competition for ’copters Airborne vehicles The scale model of the XV-24 VTOL UAV has taken its first test flights