British SKY MANTIS 2 UAV Enters the Defense Markets in Australia and New Zealand.

Evolve Dynamics, a British manufacturer of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), has successfully secured a defense order for its SKY MANTIS 2 aircraft and accessories package from a defense customer in the Australia and New Zealand region on July 8, 2024. This order, facilitated by the delivery partner Criterion Solutions, marks the debut of the SKY MANTIS 2 in these markets following an earlier agreement between Evolve Dynamics and Criterion Solutions. This partnership has expanded the availability of the SKY MANTIS 2 UAS to include sectors such as police, security, and defense in both countries. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The SKY MANTIS 2 has been designed for rapid deployment, capable of being flight-ready in about one minute(Picture source: Evolve Dynamics)

Criterion Solutions will provide ongoing customer service for Evolve Dynamics' products in Australia and New Zealand, which includes essential in-country training, as well as support and repairs. The SKY MANTIS 2 has been designed for rapid deployment, capable of being flight-ready in about one minute. This feature, combined with the ability to quickly change batteries and payloads, aims to reduce operational downtime. The entire system, including the charger and a spare battery, is designed to be compact enough to fit into a single backpack, enhancing its portability.

In terms of improvements over the original model, the SKY MANTIS 2 is equipped with an updated propulsion system that increases flight stability and reliability. This system also allows the UAV to carry up to an additional 2 kg of payload. When tethered, the drone can achieve a 48-hour endurance thanks to its one-hour flight capability.

The UAV includes standard Doodle Labs Mesh Rider radio technology, designed to enhance communication resilience. Optional external radios are available, allowing for remote operation to enhance operator safety. Additionally, the SKY MANTIS 2 supports various task-specific payloads, including a new 61 MP daylight 30X zoom HD camera with image stabilization, a LWIR thermal zoom, and an RF scanner, which collectively enhance situational awareness in various scenarios.

Evolve Dynamics states that the SKY MANTIS 2 can operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures ranging from -30°C to +50°C, winds up to 75 km/h, and heavy rainfall. The UAV is equipped with standard dual HD 30X zoom low light and thermal imaging cameras, and is designed for rapid deployment and quick battery replacement.

The drone is intended for use in a variety of situations such as locating individuals or animals in low-visibility conditions, identifying vehicle details from distances up to 300 meters, and providing aerial assessments of fire progression and structural integrity. Additionally, the SKY MANTIS 2 can perform security perimeter inspections and offer overwatch capabilities while remaining undetected at distances over 600 meters.

The SKY MANTIS 2 can operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures ranging from -30°C to +50°C, winds up to 75 km/h, and heavy rainfall (Picture source: Evolve Dynamics)

Payload options for the SKY MANTIS 2 include a gas sniffer and a 61-megapixel survey camera for specific operational needs, such as detecting gas leaks to ensure safety and regulatory compliance and conducting high-resolution surveying and mapping. The UAV is equipped with upgraded GNSS modules for improved navigation, and the introduction of blade battery connectors aims to enhance the reliability of battery connections.

Furthermore, Evolve Dynamics offers a simulator for training purposes, allowing pilots to practice in a synthetic environment that mimics real-world conditions, including adverse weather. This simulator is operated using the actual SKY MANTIS 2 ground control station, providing a realistic training experience that prepares pilots for various missions, including advanced tasks like landing on a vessel.

Mike Dewhirst, CEO of Evolve Dynamics, expressed his enthusiasm about the first order from Australia, highlighting the significant benefits this cutting-edge technology will bring to the customer's defense operations. Andrew Windsor, Director of Criterion Solutions, also commented on the milestone, noting the importance of this inaugural delivery to their new customer market and their continued commitment to supporting Evolve Dynamics in delivering top-tier sUAS capabilities to defense, security, and police sectors across Australia and New Zealand.