The exhibition of the Warsaw-based ITWL (Air Force Institute of Technology) at BME 2016 includes, among others, the AtraxM short-range VTOL UAV. This is an offer for all armed and civil services.
The four-rotor UAV is designed for reconnaissance and observation missions. It can also be used to destroy ground objects when used with a four-grenade pod. It features a quiet electric drive, a modular carbon fibre design and interchangeable observation-role modules. It is possible to create an eight-rotor version with greater capacity.
The AtraxM operates in various weather conditions, including rain, snowfall or extreme dust. It is designed for shipborne operations. An autopilot provides the ability to plan a mission before it starts, and to change flight parameters and update the home base position in real time. The data exchange with the operator’s position is performer through a digital, encrypted data and video transmission system (including full HD) in both directions. The set is protected against loss of communication, failure of one system or loss of GPS/GLONASS signal.
The take-off weight of the UAV is between 4,9 and 6.7 kg, depending on the type of mission. The overall span between rotor tips is 1.2 m. The AtraxM reaches a top speed of 80 km/h (optimum cruising speed 20 km/h) and a rate of climb up to 16 m/s. Top ceiling is 2,000 m, but the optimum mission altitude is no more than 350 m. The operating radius in open areas is approx. 10 km and the endurance is 40 minutes, with the option of extending it to approx. 1 hour. Traditional application of the AtraxM is limited to detection, identification and transmitting data about the location of enemy troops, patrolling designated areas (including march routes of own units, for example), but it is also possible to perform missions in support of rescue, exploration or contamination detection operations. A whole spectrum of protection and observation missions is planned for civil services. Displays of AtraxM capabilities are provided in the outdoor exhibition areas during BME 2016.