Thales Fulmar X

Thales Fulmar X Story

Thales 'Fulmar X' is a miniature unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) powered by traditional means, made in Spain. It lists Spain and Malaysia as its two major global operators (2017). The system has a flat fuselage with mixed main and swept wings. The empennage consists of two inwardly curved rudders.

The structure involves the use of carbon fiber composites. This product is designed for general surveillance/reconnaissance work and has previously been used in fishing. The Malaysian Coast Guard has started to take over this type of security duties on newly built patrol boats.

The Fulmar X product was launched in Farnborough in 2016.

The Fulmar X weighs only 42 pounds and is classified as a mini drone. Aside from its inherent portability, one of its most powerful attributes is its ability to fly 50 miles without refueling (mission duration is about 8 hours). Also, thanks to its surface work, the body is designed to float for up to 24 hours to recover. Its mission equipment includes an electro-optical and infrared (IR) sensor with built-in detection and tracking.

The drone is launched via a catapult and recovered via an erected net (recovery is performed by an autonomous function). This allows the system to be dropped into the water and recovered by a moving vessel - ideal for use at sea, whether in the civilian or military sector.

The first Fulmar X was delivered to Malaysia at the end of 2016. These will be deployed on about half a dozen Coast Guard patrol boats currently under construction and being tested at sea. Up to seven Fulmar Xs can be purchased.

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