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BAe Systems Mantis

History

With every modern conflict in the past, Europes reliance on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems has grown significantly, and some companies have begun to seek short-term solutions and offer the prospect of lucrative exports. BAe Systems is only launching its "Mantis" as a UAV technology demonstrator for evaluating full-scale unmanned combat vehicles, especially known under the Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) category. The UCAV class is similar in many respects to the basic UAV/drone that has been developed to support the delivery of precision-guided munitions (such as the US MQ-9 "Reaper" series).

These aircraft are typically larger in size, with more advanced onboard systems and larger internal fuel volumes (extended operating envelope) and mission payloads. The Mantis, currently serving as a development test platform, made its maiden flight on 21 October 2009 at the Woomera Test Range in Australia.

It joins BAe System's other high-profile drone demonstrator, the "Taranis," which began working on a prototype in 2007. To date, the Mantis program has produced a prototype based on a model that debuted in the UK at the 2008 Farnborough Airshow.

Operation Mantis is a UK-led initiative focused on the prospect of defining reusable, long-range, deep-penetrating UAV combat systems. As such, the vehicle is designed for high endurance and long-range performance as well as modular payload capabilities including weapons delivery support. Like other growing drone projects, Mantis intends to operate largely autonomously, while relying on satellite communications to locate itself.

User interaction allows for overlays, but the Mantis will be self-contained in its navigation, landing and take-off procedures. Led by BAe Systems, the program also includes key industry players such as GE Aviation, L3 Wescam and Rolls-Royce. Avionics include LS Wescam MX-20 series imaging systems and Image Collection and Development (ICE) kits from BAe Systems.

The data collected during the Mantis programme will contribute to the future development of a joint UK-French drone programme called "Telemos" (led by BAe Systems/Dassault).

The exterior profile of the Mantis is largely conventional, essentially mimicking a manned aircraft, albeit with a curved front that houses an operating system rather than a cockpit. The fuselage is well contoured, has good aerodynamic efficiency and includes a low straight wing root. The rear of the fuselage is tapered with a "T-shaped" tail. The Mantis is powered by two Rolls-Royce engines arranged in a "propeller" configuration in various nacelles along the fuselage spine in front of the tail.

The landing gear can be driven in a conventional manner and is fully retractable. The wing assemblies are designed to carry external ammunition on six hardpoints.

The overall length of the Mantis prototype is 65 feet, while the fuselage is 2,200 pounds unladen and has a maximum takeoff weight of 19,800 pounds. Power is provided by 2 Rolls-Royce M250B-17 turboshaft engines, each producing 380 hp.

Currently, Mantis has a top speed of 345 mph, cruises around 230 mph, and has a mission duration of up to 30 hours before it needs resupply.