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Schiebel Improves CAMCOPTER S-100 Drone with IMSAR Radar for Superior Surveillance Capabilities.
On December 10, 2024, Schiebel, in collaboration with MDA Space, successfully demonstrated the advanced capabilities of IMSAR’s NSP synthetic aperture radar (SAR) during an intensive trial at the Foremost UAS Test Range in western Canada. Conducted over a week, the demonstration highlighted the radar’s sophisticated ground and maritime moving target indicator (GMTI/MMTI) functions, seamlessly integrated into the CAMCOPTER S-100, a proven platform for military and civilian applications.
A Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 equipped with an IMSAR NSP synthetic aperture radar payload significantly enhances the platform’s capabilities for surveillance and target detection. (Picture source: Schiebel)
The integration of IMSAR’s NSP radar into the CAMCOPTER S-100 was completed ahead of schedule, with all radar electronics housed in a compact pod. Its onboard software enables simple and intuitive mission planning, allowing operators to upload radar flight plans directly to the platform. During the trials, the S-100, equipped with IMSAR’s NSP radar, Wescam’s MX-8 electro-optical/infrared sensor, anti-jamming GPS, and an automatic identification system (AIS), successfully conducted simulated ground and maritime missions. The system demonstrated exceptional performance both day and night, delivering high-resolution SAR imagery and precise GMTI tracking, even in challenging weather conditions and over distances exceeding 100 nautical miles. This project, initiated in 2023 as part of the Schiebel-IMSAR partnership, reflects Schiebel’s commitment to enhancing the drone’s capabilities to meet the growing demand for advanced surveillance solutions for VTOL platforms.
The integration of IMSAR’s NSP radar into the CAMCOPTER S-100 delivers crucial surveillance and detection capabilities for complex and hostile environments. For instance, in anti-maritime trafficking missions, the radar can detect and track small or fast-moving vessels in real-time, even under cover of darkness or adverse weather, which are often beyond the reach of conventional sensors. By combining GMTI/MMTI detection with high-resolution SAR imagery, operators can locate suspicious vessels over 100 nautical miles away, analyze their movements, and relay real-time data to intervention units. This level of precision and reliability in adverse conditions significantly enhances coordination and operational efficiency, whether for border security or search-and-rescue missions.
Neil Hunter, Global Sales Manager at Schiebel, praised the collaboration, stating: “The integration of IMSAR’s radar with the S-100, combined with a powerful electro-optical/infrared sensor, significantly broadens the platform’s surveillance and detection capabilities. These trials confirm the S-100’s ability to deliver actionable intelligence in real time across vast areas and in all weather conditions.” These successful tests further establish the S-100 as a cutting-edge multi-sensor platform capable of meeting the demands of complex operational environments.
The CAMCOPTER S-100 is renowned for its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, requiring neither runways nor additional infrastructure. Built with a carbon-fiber and titanium fuselage, it can carry payloads of up to 34 kg (75 lbs) and offers an endurance of up to 10 hours. Its ability to operate beyond the line of sight and in GPS-denied environments makes the S-100 an indispensable asset for defense and commercial applications, ensuring superior performance and operational flexibility.
Schiebel began developing the CAMCOPTER S-100 in the 1990s when the Austrian company, originally specializing in mine detectors, expanded into unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Following several prototypes and tests, the S-100 was unveiled in 2003 as an innovative VTOL drone solution. Designed to meet both military and civilian needs, it quickly gained attention for its robustness and versatility. Operational deliveries started in 2006, and the S-100 has since undergone multiple technological upgrades, including improvements in sensors, endurance, and communication capabilities. Today, it is used by armed forces and civilian operators in over 40 countries, cementing its position as one of the world’s most reliable VTOL systems.
The CAMCOPTER S-100 has been sold to a wide range of military, civilian, and government customers since its launch. Early adopters included the United Arab Emirates, which acquired the system in 2006 to enhance its surveillance capabilities. Since then, it has been adopted by over 40 countries, including Germany, France, Australia, India, and China, primarily for reconnaissance, maritime surveillance, and border security missions. In 2010, the Italian Navy integrated it into its maritime operations, followed by the Egyptian Navy in 2020. Most recently, in 2023, Indonesia expanded its fleet of S-100s for exclusive economic zone surveillance. These sales highlight the S-100’s versatility and reliability in diverse operational contexts.