AERTEC has signed a contract with AALTO to undertake the design, development, manufacture, supply and support of the main avionics for Zephyr, an unmanned aerial platform that operates in the stratosphere and is designed to carry out long-duration missions. The systems will be developed and manufactured at the company’s centre in Seville. The agreement strengthens AERTEC’s involvement in a European programme aimed at developing new capabilities for stratospheric operations.
Zephyr is a solar-powered aircraft that flies above conventional air traffic. Its ability to remain airborne for extended periods has enabled it to set the world record for flight endurance among fixed-wing aircraft, at over 67 days, according to information provided by the companies.
The platform is designed to operate independently of the payload, making it adaptable to a range of commercial and government applications. These include direct connectivity with devices, high-resolution Earth observation, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, disaster management and border protection.
Connectivity from the stratosphere
The Zephyr programme aims to utilise the stratosphere as a new operational environment situated between conventional aviation and satellites. AALTO refers to this space as ‘Stratospace’ and proposes using the platform as an aerial infrastructure capable of providing services from a high, persistent vantage point.
In the field of communications, Zephyr can act as a ‘tower in the sky’, providing direct connectivity to users’ devices across an estimated area of up to 7,500 square kilometres. This capability complements the observation and surveillance possibilities offered by its prolonged presence over a specific area.
The contract with AERTEC covers work relating to the main avionics – a set of electronic systems that the Spanish company will develop for this platform. The project forms part of the company’s aerospace engineering and technology activities carried out at its Seville facilities.
Pedro Becerra, Managing Director of Aerospace and Defence at AERTEC, believes that the agreement marks a milestone for the company and strengthens its position as a technology partner in the development of advanced aerospace systems. He also highlights the importance of collaborating with AALTO on a platform which, he points out, is helping to shape the future of stratospheric operations.
On behalf of AALTO, James Pritchard, Head of Procurement (MCIPS), has expressed his satisfaction at strengthening the collaboration with AERTEC, which he regards as a trusted partner in meeting the programme’s technological requirements. The company hopes that this joint effort will contribute to the further development of Zephyr.
The agreement sees AERTEC involved in an initiative that combines the development of electronic systems with new applications for long-endurance aerial platforms. The work will be carried out in Seville, from where the company will undertake the contracted activities relating to Zephyr’s main avionics.
Source: Aerospace News
