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Airbus DS Tanan 300

2019 MODERN AIRCRAFT DRONE TECHNOLOGY

History of the Airbus DS Tanan 300

The Airbus Defence and Space Tanan 300 joins the ranks of the world's unmanned vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) systems. Tanan is designed in a similar form to Saab Skeldar (detailed elsewhere on this site). The 300 is intended for use by surface ships engaged in ocean surveillance missions.

Additionally, Airbus is developing the aircraft for use in maritime search and rescue (SAR), general reconnaissance, target acquisition, general intelligence and humanitarian operations support. Airbus also provides custom sensor equipment for the Tanan 300, ranging from nighttime imaging and electronic intelligence to maritime radar capabilities and high-definition electro-optical/infrared (HDEO/IR) equipment to suit various missile roles.

As planned, the Tanan 300 has a wingspan of 5 meters, a barrel length of 4.3 meters and a height to the main rotor mast of 1.2 meters. Its configuration mimics a traditional manned helicopter system, with a multi-blade main rotor on the fuselage that houses the required avionics, fuel storage and powerplant systems.

A shaft hidden in the stern shaft drives the multi-blade tail rotor on the starboard side. The chassis is rail-mounted, which makes field operations easier and the drone unit is less expensive to manufacture.

The optics are housed in the abdominal pouch for a good view of the surroundings and horizon. The Tanan 300 has a range of up to 180km and can transport a payload of up to 50kg within an 8 hour continuous window (MTOW of 300kg).

The top speed reaches 150 kilometers per hour, and the service is currently limited to 4,000 meters. Cruising speed is expected to be around 100 km/h. Operations on the Tanan 300 are expected to take place at depths of 3,000 meters and below.

From June 2014, the Tanan 300 will be further developed under the Cassidian brand label. Cassidian, Astrium and Airbus Military have merged to form Airbus Defence and Space ("Airbus DS").

This article will be updated with new information.