Singapore debut for Skylark 3 Hybrid UAS from Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems today introduced a new version of its small tactical unmanned aerial vehicle Skylark 3 (STUAS), equipped with a hybrid propulsion system. Like the classic Skylark 3, the drone is a covert UAV operation.

The hybrid power system is designed to quickly arrive in the area of ​​interest (AOI) using an internal combustion engine. when working in the area of ​​interest, you can turn on silent mode (electric motor). Thus, it allows you to combine long-term operations, while providing real-time intelligence, day and night.

According to the company, the use of an electric motor with a battery-powered internal combustion engine triples endurance and provides up to 18 hours of operation. The engine system is fully integrated into the glider, maintaining size or weight, greatly increasing mission efficiency and economy.

The classic Skylark 3 uses a battery-powered electric motor connected to a pusher. The new hybrid model adds an economical internal combustion engine to the front. The use of a battery-powered electric motor minimizes acoustic and thermal signatures. In addition to benefits in endurance and quiet operation, the twin-engine architecture also enhances flight safety through redundancy, allowing one engine to support another.

The higher endurance of the Skylark 3 Hybrid increases the drone’s wander time over AOI, requiring fewer platforms per mission. Two Skylark 3 Hybrid STUAS can be assigned to the same mission simultaneously under the control of a common ground control station. The drone is controlled by a crew of two, it is launched by a pneumatic launcher, which can be installed on a vehicle or vessel. Skylark 3 is extracted by parachute at a predetermined landing site.

The Skylark 3 Hybrid has a wingspan of 4.7 m, a maximum takeoff weight of 50 kg, a service ceiling of 12,000 feet and a range of 120 km. It has a double payload capacity with a plug & play interface for quick replacement of sensors in the field. The Skylark 3 Hybrid is capable of integrating a range of payloads, including high-resolution gimbal load, ELINT, COMINT and laser pointers, among others.

The Elbit System is showcasing the Skylark 3 Hybrid for the first time at the Singapore Airshow 2022.

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Skylark 3 can also be configured with the new Wide Area Information Collection System (WAMI), a MiniSkEye payload designed for lightweight platforms. Subscribe to read the full review