Rapid Composites, a provider of engineering and manufacturing services, has announced that it has developed a tricopter unmanned aerial system (UAS) suitable for military, law enforcement and commercial markets. The Bullray is amphibious, waterproof and man-portable, with Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capabilities.
The Rapid Composites team of engineers and designers examined the existing VTOL UAS offerings to determine common denominators and identify potential gaps in the marketplace. The team saw the potential to develop a new category of autonomous aircraft – a rugged, all-weather UAV that does not require the protection of a bulky transit case. Rapid then selected industry partners with uniquely relevant experience, such as Quantum Composites, Surefire and FLIR, to help them develop a comprehensive solution.
The Bullray UAS features:
- Amphibious operation (water takeoff and landing)
- Waterproof IP-67 design that is capable of flying in all weather
- Shoulder sling-able and man-portable design (push button folding booms and quick release rifle sling)
- Rugged MIL-810-G construction (no transit case required)
- 38″ length
- 7kg payload capacity
- 15-second, three button deployment
- 30 to 45 minute flight time (varies depending on payload and weather conditions)
- 3 integrated rifle-style Picatinny rails for implements
- Significantly lower part count than other VTOL UAVs
- Quantum’s advanced quasi-Isotropic composite materials throughout its airframe
- Lightweight (4.4kg/flying no-payload) aerodynamic fuselage with semi-conventional articulating tailfin
- Optional integrated Surefire weapon light system
- Multi-spectral sensor systems
- Pitch fiber pin-fin and airfoil heat sinks
