Brazilian business Nest Design Aerospace presented the ATD-150, referred to as the nations first 100% indigenously developed jet-powered unmanned airplane.
The system has been developed particularly to function as an aerial target for the Brazilian Armed Forces and is also being thought about for export to worldwide users.According to the producer, the ATD-150 is meant to reproduce sophisticated aerial threats in training environments and aims to enhance operational readiness by offering a domestic solution for simulated combat workouts and system testing.According to readily available info, the ATD-150 has an optimum takeoff weight (MTOW) of up to 150 kilograms and a maximum payload capability of 15 kilograms.
It can operate at elevations in between 10,000 and 15,000 feet, with a service ceiling of 20,000 feet.
Under flight conditions of FL150 and ISA +35, it achieves a cruise speed of Mach 0.6.
The propulsion system is the TM TJ-200 turbojet engine, developed in Brazil by Turbomachine.
The UAV works on Jet A-1 or aviation kerosene.
Nest Design Aerospace mentions that this setup allows the ATD-150 to operate as a high-speed, jet-powered target ideal for complex and reasonable danger simulations during training operations and air defense exercises.The main mission profile of the ATD-150 consists of applications such as air strike training, air-to-air engagement training, air defense system preparation, and cruise rocket threat simulation.
It is likewise intended to support intelligence data collection and the examination of defense weapon systems.
The UAV is equipped with a variety of onboard functions developed to mimic enemy habits and attributes.
These include pre-programmed waypoint navigation, a smoke generator to increase visibility throughout tracking workouts, and automated evasive maneuver routines.It likewise incorporates a Miss Distance Indicator (MDI) for taping the distance of intercept efforts, and includes passive RF signal enhancement, real-time video transmission capability, and an infrared (IR) signature.
Piloting can be carried out by hand or through semi-autonomous or completely self-governing control modes, depending upon objective requirements.Nest Design Aerospace defines the ATD-150 as a totally Brazilian effort, conceived, crafted, and put together within the national defense commercial base.
According to the company, the program shows an effort to develop a national ability in the field of jet-powered aerial target drones, offering a resource for training and system recognition that does not count on foreign platforms.
The aircraft is likewise described as a system supporting several setups and intended to satisfy the operational needs of militaries preparing for innovative air threats.As part of its marketing and market engagement efforts, Nest Design Aerospace took part in LAAD 2025, a significant defense and security exhibition held in Rio de Janeiro.
The company reported that its team engaged with suppliers, possible partners, and clients throughout the occasion.
Nest Design Aerospace noted that the ATD-150 brought in attention at the exhibition, with many individuals apparently currently familiar with the platform.
According to the company, this direct exposure assisted strengthen its objective of advancing new strategic partnerships and increasing the visibility of its aerial target program within both national and international defense sectors.Nest Design Aerospace also released product revealing that the ATD-150 is approaching its preliminary operational stage.
According to the company, all advancement activities, ranging from part combination and functional screening to performance verification, are progressing towards what it describes as a significant turning point in national air travel.
Additional video products were launched, highlighting the style and screening phases of the program.
The company mentioned that more updates and comprehensive views of the UAV are expected in the near future.Source: Army Recognition