ADCOM Systems unveiled the first fixed wing UAV for anti-submarine warfare

At the Dubai Airshow 2013, which was held in November, UAE based company ADCOM Systems which specializes in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) unveiled its “NAVY UAV”. This new UAV project is designed specifically for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). This makes it the world’s first fixed wing UAV project dedicated to ASW missions.

The Navy UAV is based on ADCOM’s existing UNITED 40 block 5, a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV. The Navy UAV has a wingspan of 17.53 meters and a length of 11.13 meters. Its payload capacity is 1050 kg (2315 lb). Its glider-like, high aspect ratio wings and dual engine set up allows for endurance in excess of 100 hours.

According to ADCOM, the Navy UAV would detect submarines through the use of sonobuoys. The ASW UAV is expected to carry a maximum of two torpedoes and would detect and attack submarines autonomously or with live control from an operator depending on the mission and flight plan.