Portuguese Air Force to Launch Operations with Tekever AR5 MALE Drones in September
The long-endurance platform can remain airborne for up to 20h with a 50kg sensor payload. The Portuguese air force will begin operations with Tekever AR5 medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) from next month, under a contract announced on 11 August. "Delivery of the systems and the achievement of initial operational capability [is] scheduled for this coming September," the company says. That will coincide with the completion of its delivery of an initial package of personnel training, it adds. The number of UAS covered by the deal has not been disclosed, but Tekever says it also includes the delivery of ground control station equipment and its Atlas mission system. The twin-engined AR5 can carry a mission and sensor payload weighing up to 50kg (110lb). "A second phase of training will take place in October, consolidating full operational readiness and the development of new skills among the operational teams," the Portuguese company says. Tekever cites expected operational tasks for the up-to-20h-endurance platform as including "maritime surveillance, security and defence missions", along with coastal and exclusive economic zone monitoring, and "public interest missions", such as providing support for firefighting and environmental protection operations. "This contract puts an autonomous capability developed and produced in Portugal to work in protecting our airspace and maritime capability," says Tekever director of strategic development Pedro Petiz. The Portuguese customer, meanwhile, notes that the new capability will "contribute to an air force that is better prepared to respond to present and future challenges". Lisbon's selection of the AR5 comes just weeks after the UK Ministry of Defence also picked the model to replace the Watchkeeper UAS operated by the British Army. Aircraft to be operated by the UK service will be produced at a Tekever factory in Swindon, Wiltshire, with the company expecting to make first deliveries before year-end.