In a groundbreaking agreement, Airbus has forged a strategic contract with the Spanish Ministry of Defence to lead the development and acquisition of SIRTAP, a state-of-the-art High-Performance Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). This partnership aims to bolster the tactical capabilities of the Spanish Army and the Air and Space Force. The substantial contract, valued at approximately 595 million euros, underscores the pivotal role played by Airbus Defense & Space in this significant undertaking.
Revolutionizing Tactical Capabilities
This comprehensive contract encompasses nine SIRTAP systems, each featuring three unmanned aerial vehicles and a ground control station. Additionally, the agreement includes the provision of two simulators crucial for training the Spanish Armed Forces. This tactical UAS is designed to evolve, capable of seamless integration with other platforms within a system of systems framework.
Advanced Design for Versatile Missions
SIRTAP boasts a payload exceeding 150kgs, purposefully designed for sophisticated surveillance, intelligence, and reconnaissance missions across diverse terrains and seascapes. With an impressive range surpassing 2,000km and an endurance exceeding 20 hours, it guarantees high flexibility and responsiveness, facilitating day and night operations even in the most challenging environments.
Incorporating state-of-the-art ice protection and a high-temperature amplitude system, SIRTAP operates flawlessly under any weather conditions, spanning a temperature range from -40°C to +50°C. Flying at an altitude of 21,000 feet, this tactical UAS emerges as the ideal solution for day/night and maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, delivering rapid response capabilities for precise target inspections.
Strategic Significance and Global Impact
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Military Air Systems at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasizes the strategic importance of this technological milestone in the tactical UAS segment. The collaboration with the Spanish Ministry of Defence not only reinforces national sovereignty but also positions SIRTAP as a global player. Designed to be fully developed in Spain, integrating national capabilities, the system's versatility and use of ITAR-free components are expected to play a pivotal role in the international market.
Certified for Segregated Airspace
The SIRTAP system is set to achieve certification for operation in segregated airspace, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards. This development not only enhances its operational capabilities but also signifies adherence to stringent regulatory requirements.
Versatile Transportation and Future Prospects
One of the standout features of SIRTAP is its adaptability for transportation. The easily dismounted wings and rotor enable transportation via standard containers on both land and air. Transport aircraft like the C295 can accommodate two SIRTAP units in a single flight, providing logistical flexibility.
As the SIRTAP prototype is slated for its inaugural flight in 2025, Airbus and the Spanish Ministry of Defence anticipate this high-performance tactical UAS to revolutionize the sector. With dual applications catering to a broad spectrum of missions aligned with the specific operational needs of institutional and governmental customers, SIRTAP is set to redefine the high-end tactical UAS landscape.
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