Airbus and Singapore's Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) have successfully concluded a groundbreaking HTeaming flight campaign at a Singapore airbase. This marks the first time the Airbus Flexrotor uncrewed aerial system (UAS) has teamed with the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) H225M helicopter. The trials, conducted in January, demonstrated that a crewed helicopter can securely access real-time data from a UAS, significantly extending its visual range and enhancing mission safety.
The collaboration saw Airbus manage the design and integration of the HTeaming system into the H225M, enabling the helicopter crew to receive and process real-time data from the Flexrotor. This integration facilitated rapid decision-making and mission execution whilst minimising crew exposure to high-risk environments. Ang Jer Meng, Director Air Systems at DSTA, highlighted the success as a "positive step forward in teaming capabilities to enhance the RSAF's mission effectiveness."
Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, described the successful teaming as a "game-changer for modern tactical operations," illustrating the ability to exploit dual-use technologies for secure operations. The Airbus HTeaming system is designed to be compatible across the entire Airbus helicopter range, integrating various uncrewed platforms to meet specific mission requirements.
The Flexrotor, a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft, is designed for long-duration missions and can autonomously launch and recover from minimal areas. The H225, part of the Super Puma family, is known for its high performance and advanced avionics, with over 360 units in service worldwide. This successful trial paves the way for more dynamic operations and enhanced situational awareness in complex missions
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