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79 UMEX 2018 | Show report interface between the respective vehicle and the VCSi’s operating system.” VCSi comes integrated with Lockheed’s ‘fly-by-mouse’ interface, to ensure compatibility between the computers and laptops that operators may have to hand. The network-centric control architecture also allows the operation of an unmanned vehicle to be handed over to any user- designated VCSi control station within range, be it commercial or military. The system also implements a common drone ‘language’ that allows the vehicles and ground stations to talk to one another. This implementation is called a vehicle-specific module. “A vehicle-specific module has to be built that creates the interface, or codec, between a vehicle’s autopilot and the VCSi station,” Molberg added. “We use NATO standard Stanag 4586, which we’ve worked with since 2002. In many cases the modules already exist – we have some of them ourselves for different autopilots; sometimes the autopilot manufacturers or vehicle manufacturer will build them.” MK Unmanned Systems displayed its multi-copter UAS for defence applications, including surveillance and logistics, at the show. The MK-Z6.4 is a quadcopter capable of carrying up to 6.5 kg for up to 40 minutes, while the larger MK-N9.8 octocopter carries up to 9 kg for up to 23 minutes. Both systems have IP67-rated hulls and propellers made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic with foam cores. The MK-Z6.4’s propellers and hull are foldable to reduce the size and make it easier to carry between missions. “The lithium-polymer battery on the MK-N9.8 produces either 16 or 22 A, depending on the user’s performance requirements. The MK-Z6.4’s battery delivers just 16 A though, as the quadcopter’s enclosure is smaller and it doesn’t require as much power,” said Mauricio Munoz Ebensperger. Ukrspecsystems showcased its PD-1 UAV, a fixed-wing aircraft designed principally for intelligence, security and maritime operations, as well as commercial surveys in mining and agricultural areas. The airframe body is designed to be modular, and uses a tools-free magnetic system of fastening (along with hinge locks) for the different sections of the aircraft. This mechanism allows a ground team to dismantle the sections of the 4 m wingspan efficiently, to fit in two vertical rotor sections. These extend the overall wingspan to 5 m and enable VTOL for the UAV. The system’s MTOW is 40 kg, with an empty weight of 22 kg. The standard payload capacity is 10 kg, with the remaining weight being for the 12 litre fuel tank, which uses A-95 fuel mixed with oil. The PD-1 is powered by a four-stroke, two-cylinder engine, for ten hours of flight endurance. The engine can be started remotely, and an optional electronic fuel injection system can be installed on request. “We have also designed in a package delivery mechanism behind the payload bay, which can also be swapped out for a parachute bay if desired,” said Jacob Cereteli. “You can carry and drop up to 7 kg in one piece, or the system can handle up to eight separate pre- programmed package drops, such as medicine deliveries, in different locations. “For flight control and navigation, we can use open-source autopilots such as PixHawk, or more advanced options from our European partners including triple- redundant flight controllers,” he added. Unmanned Systems Technology | April/May 2018 The VCSi program from Lockheed Martin allows fleets of unmanned platforms to be controlled Ukrspecsystems’ PD-1 has a modular body and a tools-free fastening system