The UK Army has deployed a new handheld surveillance helicopter, known as the Black Hornet Nano Unmanned Air Vehicle, in support of British troops serving in Afghanistan.
Measuring around 4inx1in (10cmx2.5cm), the small helicopter has been designed to deliver crucial situational awareness capabilities to soldiers operating on the ground.
Go deeper with GlobalData
UK Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Minister Philip Dunne said: "Black Hornet gives our troops the benefits of surveillance in the palm of their hands. It is extremely light and portable whilst out on patrol.
"Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems are a key component in our ten-year equipment plan and now that we have balanced the defence budget we are able to confidently invest in these kinds of cutting-edge technologies."
Under a £20m contract awarded by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), around 160 units will be manufactured and delivered for use by the British soldiers in Afghanistan.
See Also:
Developed by Norwegian Prox Dynamics in collaboration with Marlborough Communications, the 16gm portable Black Hornet system is capable of easily supporting patrol missions even under unfavourable conditions.
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.
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 GlobalDataFitted with a small camera to relay full-motion video and still images onto a handheld terminal to the ground forces, the system is used by the soldiers to detect and identify possible hidden threats in places such as around corners or over walls and other obstructions.
Commenting on the advantage offered to ground forces, Brigade Reconnaissance Force in Afghanistan sergeant Christopher Petherbridge said the Black Hornet was being used to look for insurgent firing points and check out exposed areas of the ground before crossing.
Image: A Black Hornet Nano Unmanned Air Vehicle being launched by a soldier in Afghanistan. Photo: courtesy of sergeant Rupert Frere RLC, Crown Copyright/MOD 2013.
