Aquila Remotely Piloted Vehicle System Technology Demonstrator Rpv Std Program Volume I System Description And Capabilities

The Army Aquila RPV system technology demonstrator consists of 146-lb RPVs with a 12.35-ft wingspan and a 6-ft length, ground support systems consisting of truck-mounted ground control stations and pneumatic launchers, trailer-mounted vertical barrier RPV retrieval systems, and auxiliary support equipment. The system demonstrated effective targeting and surveillance capabilities at maximum ranges exceeding 20 km, with payload options ranging from unstabilized TV cameras to laser designators. (Author).

The Aquila system was developed using off-the-shelf hardware and best commercial practices where practical to minimize cost while retaining performance commensurate with 'HI-REL' hardware design. Evolution of proven RPV concepts, i.e., autopilot, sensor, and pneumatic launcher; development of new elements, airframe structure, servoactuator, and electronic interface units; adaptation of such hardware as the data link elements; and use of existing commercial units, i.e., recorders, computer, and monitor hardware, produced an effective system that was refined through flight testing and made available to trained army crews. (Author).

System refinement and demonstration, and final Army crew training was accomplished at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, in 1976. The program required 28 flights and demonstrated major system functions prior to Army flight mission exercises to assess the system. The system proved most effective for surveillance and targeting. (Author).

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