Serbia Exhibits Latest UAVs

During the recent airshow at Batajnica near Belgrade the Serbian defence ministry provided the public with an opportunity to view the range of UAS being developed by its Military Technical Institute (MTI).

The air show which marked 100 years of Serbian military aviation was held on 2 September. The activities of the MTI are primarily focused on the development of weaponry and military equipment. It is completely owned by the Serbian state and is an integral part of the national Defence University.

One of the UAS on display was the Vrabac (Sparrow). This ongoing project is meant to provide ISR as well as target acquisition capabilities.

The mini UAS is also destined to be used for forest fire control and border patrol duties. The system consists of three air vehicles, a single ground control station and a remote video terminal. It is launched by hand while it uses a parachute and airbag to prevent damage during landing. Maximum take off weight is 7 kg with a maximum payload of 1,5 kg.

An electro-optical or infrared sensor can be fitted. Endurance is said to be approximately one hour with an operational radius of 10 km being given. Sparrow operates at a service altitude of 500 m with a cruise speed of 61 kph.

Also shown was the Pegaz (Pegasus), a short range tactical UAS. Pegasus first flew on 4 October 2011. It can carry a payload of 40 kg due to its much highter maximum take off weight of 230 kg. Optics by the French company Thales were seen installed on Pegasus during a Serbian defence trade show in late 2011. It can loiter for 12 hours at an altitude of 3000 metres.