aai shadow 200 (rq-7) replaces boeing/ insitu

sUAS News
May 07, 2012 09:11 am | Gary Mortimer
Australia’s Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aerial System Commences Afghan Operations
The Shadow 200 Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (TUAS) has officially commenced operations in Afghanistan with the Australian Defence Force, providing an enhanced capability to the International Security Assistance Force. The Shadow 200 TUAS is designed to conduct Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) operational support, enhancing the decision cycle of the support force element, through the employment of its sensors. The Shadow 200 TUAS replaces the ScanEagle which has been in operation since mid 2007. Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Ash Power said the ScanEagle has provided constant intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support to ground elements 24/7 for nearly five years. “During that time the ScanEagle has made significant contributions to the force protection and situational awareness of the Coalition Force soldier on the ground,” Lieutenant General Power said. “This was an average of 22 hours per day over the four years and 10 month period – a tremendous effort. Approximately 180 ADF personnel deployed in support of ScanEagle, with the bulk from 20th Surveillance and Target Acquisition Regiment. Other contributing units include 16 Air Defence Regiment, Defence Imagery and Geospatial Organisation, 1st Topographical Survey Squadron and 16 Aviation Brigade. “ScanEagle has been the vehicle for the Australian [...]