Thales Fulmar X Mini-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)

Specifications

Year: 2016
Manufacturer(s): Thales - Spain
Production: 16
Capabilities: Reconnaissance (RECCE); Unmanned;

Crew: 0
Width: 32.32 ft (9.85 m)
Weight (Empty): 22 lb (10 kg)
Weight (MTOW): 44 lb (20 kg)

Power: 1 x Motor.

Range: 50 miles (80 km; 43 nm)

Operators: Malaysia; Spain

The Thales "Fulmar X" is an miniature Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) powered through conventional means and is produced in Spain. it names both Spain and Malaysia as its two primary operators globally (2017). The system sports a flat body with blended swept back wing mainplanes. The tail unit consists of a pair of inward-cranked vertical fins. Construction involves use of carbon fiber composites. The product is designed for general surveillance / reconnaissance work and has been active in the fisheries industry to date. The Malaysian Coast Guard has begun receiving the type for security service aboard new-build patrol craft.

The Fulmar X product was launched at Farnborough 2016.

At just 42lb, the Fulmar X is categorized as a mini-UAV. One of its strongest qualities, beyond inherent portability, is its ability to fly up to ranges of 50 miles without requiring refueling (mission endurance is about 8 hours). Additionally, due to its over-water work, the airframe is designed to float for up to 24 hours pending retrieval. Its mission equipment includes an electro-optical and Infra-Red (IR) sensor with detection and tracking built in. The UAV is launched via catapult and retrieved by way of an erected net (recovery is through autonomous function). This allows the system to be launched and retrieved from a moving vessel - making it ideal for maritime service work whether in the civilian or military realms.

The first Fulmar X was delivered to Malaysia in late-2016. These will be used across some six Coast Guard patrol boats currently undergoing construction and entering sea trials. As many as seven Fulmar Xs may be procured.

Armament

None. Mission equipment consists of sensors and cameras for the over-water surveillance role.

Variants / Models

• Fulmar X - Base Series Designation