The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a contract to Lockheed for additional Desert Hawk III unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAV).

The 8lb Desert Hawk III UAV features an open architecture environment with enhanced 360° infrared and 360°, 10× zoom electro optics, with snap-on plug imaging playloads, a portable ground station and a remote video terminal.

UK MoD defence equipment and support (DE&S) programme manager Duncan Robbins said the new payloads provided enhanced capabilities to the vehicle and the British Army.

“Desert Hawk’s latest enhancements allow it to operate more effectively in difficult conditions and provide our soldiers with greater situational awareness in a timely manner,” he said.

Lockheed’s ship and aviation systems vice-president Mark Swymeler said the Desert Hawk III could operate in high winds, extended altitude and extreme temperatures, such as in Afghanistan.

“Unlike some other UAVs, it is extremely quiet and virtually undetectable beyond 150m,” he said.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The $5m vehicle order is scheduled to be delivered by late 2010.