SwissDrones has successfully executed a series of long-range Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights using its helicopter UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) platform, in collaboration with Transport Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate and the nation’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
These flights, conducted over water, were aimed at testing various applications, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and patrol missions. The trials also included assessments of communication systems and sensor payloads.
With a rich history in maritime aviation, Malta is striving to establish itself as a leading global center for drone technology and advanced air mobility (AAM). The SwissDrones operations were made possible through effective collaboration with several entities,including Transport Malta,the Malta Communication Authority,Malta Air Traffic Services,Enterprise Malta,Indis Malta,and the local council of San Lawrenz. All activities adhered to the European Union Safety Management (EASA) regulations for unmanned aircraft under the Specific Category, receiving full authorization from Transport Malta.
The SDO 50 V2 vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) unmanned helicopter system was the platform utilized for these tests. this UAV is engineered for a variety of long-range missions, capable of operating in challenging weather conditions, both day and night, at high altitudes, and across a wide range of temperatures, all while ensuring crew safety.
This aircraft boasts a unique design that allows for a substantial payload capacity of 45 kg (99 lbs), including fuel, and an impressive endurance of over three hours. It can carry one or multiple high-quality sensors and is equipped with numerous safety features. An integrated autopilot system facilitates autonomous take-offs, landings, and flight patterns.
The SDO 50 V2 employs the Flettner system, featuring intermeshing twin rotors that rotate in opposite directions. each rotor mast is slightly angled, enabling the blades to intermesh without collision. This innovative design contributes to its enhanced payload capacity, extended endurance, and stable flight characteristics, while also eliminating the need for a tail rotor, thereby conserving power and improving the payload-to-weight ratio.
Ulrich Amberg, CEO of SwissDrones, remarked: “the geographical advantages of the Malta archipelago make it an ideal location for testing flights in challenging maritime conditions over extended distances. Furthermore, Malta is emerging as a hub for robotics and aviation, supported by top-notch infrastructure and robust government backing, making it an excellent choice for establishing a new operational base.”
Charles Pace, Director General for Civil aviation at Transport Malta CAD, expressed: “We are highly impressed with SwissDrones’ thorough and professional execution of flight operations, as well as the remarkable engineering and quality of their aircraft. We appreciate their choice of Malta for maritime testing and validation and look forward to continued collaboration.”
Arangan Varatharajah, Head of Flight Operations at SwissDrones, added: “Working with the Government of Malta has been a rewarding experience. Each organization has been remarkably responsive and supportive throughout the application process, and we anticipate a fruitful ongoing partnership.”
