FLIR Systems has launched the Black Hornet 3, the latest iteration of the Black Hornet line of nano unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The 32-gram Black Hornet Personal Reconnaissance System (PRS) is the world’s smallest combat-proven nano UAV.
The Black Hornet 3 adds the ability to navigate in GPS-denied environments. It can fly two kilometres at speeds of over 21 kilometres an hour, and also incorporates sharper imaging processing, a visible sensor to allow greater image fidelity, and an improved encrypted digital datalink.
The nano UAV enables small combat units and first responders to access intelligence, target-acquisition, and reconnaissance capabilities. It also plugs into existing battlefield information networks.
“We are excited to bring this advanced Black Hornet 3 to our warfighters and first responders,” James Cannon, president and CEO of FLIR, said. “With longer range and indoor flight capabilities, the latest generation Black Hornet provides full surveillance coverage continuity to the mission.”
The US Army’s Soldier Borne Sensor (SBS) program has awarded FLIR a US$2.6 million contract to deliver the Black Hornet in a first batch order.
The company also confirmed that the units recently deployed by the Australian Army were Black Hornet 3s.
The nano UAVs were rolled out to 20th Surveillance Target Acquisition Regiment in Brisbane. Brigadier Susan Coyle, commander of 6th Brigade, said the Australian Army is now the largest user of nano UAVs in the world.
“It is also the first in the world to proliferate this technology to the conventional forces down to combat platoon level,” BRIG Coyle added.
For more on Army's growing use of UAS, keep an eye out for ADM's July edition next month.