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Development began at the beginning of 2004 as a totally in-house and private-venture project, being developed with internal company funds. The first prototype is expected to fly in early 2006.
The entire aircraft is constructed using a modular construction system, making adapting the airframe in future to increase the range or fit larger payloads much easier than with a rigid airframe. It also makes it possible for the aircraft, once disassembled, to fit inside a 6 m ISO shipping container.
It is able to carry a variety of payloads, with a maximum payload mass of 200 kg (440 lb). Initially, proposed payloads include the Denel Optronics Argos-410 electro-optical (E/O) and infrared (IR) system (with optional laser rangefinder), the Denel Optronics Goshawk-350 E/O and IR system (also with optional laser rangefinder), a laser designator, an Avitronics Emitter Locating System, electronic intelligence equipment, and/or a synthetic aperture radar.
Though at present it has a maximum "action radius" of only 750 km (469 miles), a satellite datalink is being developed which will allow the Bateleur to extend its range greatly, making it suitable for missions requiring longer ranges such as maritime patrol.
The Bateleur takes off and lands conventionally, on a runway, and has retractable undercarriage. It is also completely autonomous, allowing it to take off, conduct its mission, and land all without human control being required.
Roles and Missions
Related development:
Comparable aircraft:
RQ-1 Predator - GNAT-750Designation sequence:
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