EMT Flies Unmanned Museco Helicopter

Germany's EMT has performed the first flight of a modified prototype version of the Museco unmanned helicopter, with the milestone event having been staged at its Penzberg/Tussenhausen site on 12 December.

"The Museco is one additional platform option for the Luna tactical unmanned aircraft system, which has been operational in Afghanistan since 2003" with the German armed forces, EMT says. "Future operators will have a choice between the Museco helicopter or the Luna and Luna NG fixed-wing unmanned aircraft," it adds.

The system flown last month is an enhanced performance development of the Neo S-350 unmanned helicopter designed by Swiss UAV. The company has teamed with EMT to offer the concept to potential customers.

Swiss UAV's baseline Neo S-300 unmanned helicopter has a maximum take-off weight of 100kg (220lb), including a 30kg payload capacity. This version offers a 90min flight endurance, and a top speed of 65kt (120km/h).