Aeraccess exhibits the latest version of its Hawker Q800X

By Paolo Valpolini

Already in service in several armies, Aeraccess Hawker Q800X quadcopter has been further developed, the latest iteration providing improved performances.

Exhibited at Milipol Paris, the latest version is fitted with new electric motors and rotors, providing greater lift, as well as with a high capacity battery. The maximum payload has been doubled, and is now 5 kg, which increases flexibility in the choice of multi-mission payloads.

The airframe is made of composite materiel and magnesium alloy, maximum take-off weight being 8 kg, while length is 890 mm motor to motor.

The standard front sensors module hosts an electro-optic day channel fitted with a x30 zoom, and a thermal channel with an uncooled 640×512 matrix and a fix 35 mm lens and x8 digital zoom, a laser rangefinder with a 2 km range being also part of that package. Further payloads can be fitted underneath the air vehicle, such as longer range optronic gimbals, as well ads a Mirion SPIR Explorer lightweight radiation detector can also be installed for CBRNE reconnaissance, the latter system weighing less than 0.9 kg. Those payloads can be replaced without using any tool.

The new version of the Hawker Q800X can fly for 50 minutes with a 1 kg payload or carry the full 5 kg payload for 20 minutes. Its range has been increased to 15 km, the previous model having a 5-10 km range, its data link working in the 2.4 GHz band, although Aeraccess is ready to install links working on custom frequencies.

The Q800X can be transported in a box and is easily assembled in 3 to 5 minutes once the operator reaches the take-off area. It can reach a 60 km/h speed and can fly in winds up to 70 km/h, with gusts up to 90 km. Should the system fail, a safety parachute allows it to land safely.

Aeracess is further developing its Q800X system, more news being expected at short notice.

click on image to enlarge

At the Aeraccess booth it was also possible to see the latest development of the NanoHawk, the micro-UAS designed according to the requirements issued by police special units and military special forces to be used inside building. While the main features remain the same, what has evolved a number of times is the “cage” meant to protect the drone in case it hits a hard surface, in order to protect the rotors. The latest design looks simpler and lighter compared to the previous, which should allow sparing some weight, something always good in flying objects.

Photo by P. Valpolini

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