The assembly of the first SIRTAP model Airbus high-performance tactical unmanned aerial system has actually concluded and the airplane is all set to begin the ground-tests campaign at the Airbus Defence and Space centers in Getafe, Spain.The ground screening consisting of structural evaluations, main-systems elements and software application testing is because of happen over the next months and will complete with the first flight, set up by the end of 2025 at Spains National Institute of Aerospace Technologys (INTAs) Unmanned Systems Test Centre (CEUS) in Huelva, south-west Spain.The subsequent SIRTAP flight-test project at CEUS will run throughout 2026 and will be vital in acquiring the airworthiness type accreditation and make sure that the aircraft satisfies the highest security and performance requirements, resulting in the shipment of the very first system to Spain in 2027.
This brand-new technical achievement for SIRTAP shows Airbus agility to drive technological innovation with our aerospace industry partners in a timely way in accordance with our vision, stated Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space.
Developed and produced in Spain, SIRTAP will strengthen nationwide sovereignty and will be a benchmark in the tactical unmanned aerial systems section worldwide.
It is another important brick in our aspiration to shape a European environment in defence aerospace.In November 2023, the Spanish Ministry of Defence acquired 9 systems, each including three remotely-piloted airplane and a ground-control station.
An overall of 27 drones and nine ground-control stations will strengthen the tactical capabilities of the Spanish Armed Forces.
In addition, Airbus Defence and Space will supply two simulators for training Spanish operators, having already passed the Critical Design Review, which marks the completion of their architecture and design.SIRTAP represents a tactical commitment to development and nationwide industrial partnership, while providing an exportable platform thanks to its ITAR-free design.
Its advancement and prospective development towards different versions, such as the marine variation or weapons combination, will also add to enhancing commercial capabilities in the field of remotely-piloted vehicles.Photos: SIRTAPs first model at the Final Assembly Line all set to begin ground tests.Source: Airbus