Tri-Service
First Autonomous Flight For 'Ambulance Drone'
A drone designed to carry wounded soldiers to safety from the battlefield has successfully completed its first autonomous flight.
The AirMule, an unmanned aerial system, can carry 1,000 pounds (450 kg) for 31 miles (50 km).
Made by Israeli company Tactical Robotics Ltd, the single-engine aircraft can take off and land vertically, as well as flying over difficult terrain where helicopters are unable to operate, such as in mountainous, wooded, or urban environments.
It'll be capable of evacuating two casualties, and being remote-controlled. Tactical Robotics Ltd says on its website:
"Today’s conflicts are increasingly defined by insurgents whose battlefields of choice are cities, villages and other environments that are inaccessible to helicopters. Supply convoys and medical teams entering these locations experience lethal threats unlike any that have been experienced in the past."
The manufacturer says the AirMule will be able to help in situations from earthquakes and floods to nuclear, biological or chemical emergencies, quickly delivering water, food and medical supplies to affected populations, no matter how isolated
It added that its maneuverability, small visual footprint, low noise and reduced radar and infrared signatures offer a stealth advantage, with high reliability and low operating cost additional benefits.
The company is planning to show off the drone’s cargo-carrying capability later this year, with beyond-line-of-sight tests also scheduled.
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