UAV, a leader in innovative manned and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies, announced a few updates on its latest advancements in airship technology and its growing global presence. And with several global contracts currently under negotiation, UAV continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable aviation solutions. These agreements, which are represented by Letters of Intent (LOIs), outline additional contracts valued at a minimum of $105 million for a system of three DART Series (Detachable-Airship-Retractable Tether) airships.
As part of executing the contracts, the representatives of countries will witness some of the flight tests, potentially triggering significant down payments. Delays in the initial launch are due to additional engineering requirements such as new integration of advanced camera system(s), drone bay changes for AIG drone partner for MANTA and T-wing technologies, radar system, and antenna systems followed by the additional required capital needed for final integration. (UAV Corp. (UMAV) Further Reduces Authorized Shares to 500) The company plans to utilize the SA70-12 as a pivotal sales tool to finalize global sales in the pipeline.
DART SA70-12 Semi-rigid Drone Aiship Integration
Along with the airship agreements, UAV is advancing its partnership with Atlantic Industrial Group Inc. for drone capabilities. Under the standard structure of this collaboration, the contract for the initial supply and manufacturing of drone units with the completed DART MA 600 for three airship/drone systems is valued at $105 million. Additionally, service contracts for training, operational support, and piloting are driven by objective parameters specific to each project.
The Dart Series Airship marks a breakthrough in aviation technology. Version 2 will feature a carbon fiber structure(s) and rigid and semi-frames while offering unparalleled durability and adaptability. And this advanced engineering makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, including disaster relief, cargo transport, communications, security, distance learning, advertising with new digital signage, and other critical operations that demand innovative aerial capabilities for commercial and government applications worldwide.
AIG will deliver under contracts units of one or both units:
— T-Wing VTOL three-wing unit
— MANTA center frame propulsion VTOL high altitude, advanced maneuverable unit
— Advanced AI-driven co-pilot
— Customizable payloads
— Advanced lightweight materials
— Turnkey service and pilot operations
Set to launch in the first quarter of this year, the DART SA70-12 expands the DART Series portfolio, addressing key deficiencies in lighter-than-air (LTA) platforms and enhancing the versatility of unmanned aerial vehicles. This semi-rigid airship introduces groundbreaking features such as:
— Advanced station-keeping capabilities
— Detachable airship design
— In-flight auto tether release
— Manned or Unmanned Operational Modes
— Automated recovery systems
— Reverse ballonet design
— Amphibious landing capability
— Drone launch and recovery systems
Plus, the DART SA70-12 will be testing hybrid hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems, enabling high-altitude operations focusing on sustainability and efficiency. This cutting-edge feature positions the airship as a transformative solution for various global applications.
To support these advanced airship systems’ production, testing, and deployment, UAV is scheduled to break ground on the “SKY” Hangar at Skyborne’s Costin Airport in the first quarter of 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, developed in partnership with Legacy Building Solutions and Atlantic Industrial Group, will be a hub for pilot training, manufacturing, and operational testing. It underscores UAV Corp’s commitment to meeting the demands of its global contracts while advancing the future of aerospace innovation.