The prototype of the "Airbus" unmanned helicopter VSR700 had the first autonomous free flight. The testing was done at the drone testing center in the south of France, and the flight lasted ten minutes.
To enable free flight, Airbus Helicopters applied geofitting technology (using a satellite network to create virtual boundaries), which allowed them to obtain permission to fly from aviation regulators. "The free flight of the VSR700 prototype is a major step leading to sea trials planned for the end of 2021, as part of research for the future drone of the French Navy," said Airbus Helicopters director Bruno Evan. The program is planned to include the use of two demonstration aircraft, and possibly one helicopter with a pilot to oversee the development of unmanned aircraft.
The VSR700, which was developed from the "karbi G2" model, is an unmanned aerial vehicle that has a maximum take-off weight of 500 to 1.000 kilograms. Airbus claims that the VSR700 offers the best balance between capabilities and operating costs. It can operate alongside existing ships, as well as other helicopters.
The prototype was advanced in the previous nine months, when the first controlled flight took place. The geofencing function is enabled, as well as a system that allows you to interrupt the mission if necessary. In addition to structural modifications, the auto-pilot system has also been updated.
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