IDEX 2021: EDGE showcases autonomous capabilities with eight new UAVs.

According to a press release published by EDGE, an advanced technology group for defence and beyond, today launches its first family of multirotor loitering munitions, the QX range. In addition, Shadow 1 and Shadow 2, Rash 2 gliding munition, as well as new variants of the RW24 range – all designed and manufactured in the company’s first year of operations – were launched on the first day of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2021), that is underway at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre until 25 February.

small UAV QX-3 (Picture source Army Recognition)

The QX family of loitering munitions comprises four products: QX-1, a micro-UAV, QX-2, a mini-UAV, QX-3, a small UAV, and QX-4, which features an impressive vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fixed wing. The precision-guided systems use sophisticated AI algorithms to target and strike, boasting an accuracy of 1 m CEP (circular error probable) – with an aim similar to laser guided munitions. Built to launch in any environment or terrain, the entire QX family of UAVs are lightweight, man portable, and comprise VTOL capabilities.

The second range of loitering munitions consists of Shadow 1 and Shadow 2. Delivering high precision strike against fixed targets and advanced guidance capabilities, these UAVs leverage Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and can fly using video navigation systems.

Also launched on Day 1 of IDEX, the Rash 2 UAV is a fixed-wing guidance kit for mortars and other in-house designed payloads, capable of gliding in flight and directing munitions to ground targets, available in different sizes to accommodate varying payload capacity, range, and endurance.

Three new additions to the RW-24 range were also launched in time for IDEX 2021. The newly unveiled RW-24 Seeker is equipped with a thermal automatic seeker that enable greater accuracy of engagement of moving targets and increased functionality within GPS-denied environments.
The RW-24 Extended Warhead and RW-24 Extended Range variants increase the payload capacity from 8 kg to 13 kg, enabling the drone to carry additional fuel or to increase the size of the warhead.

The QX family and Shadow ranges of loitering munitions, the Rash 2, and the new variants of the RW-24 were designed and manufactured in the UAE end-to-end, within an accelerated and exceptional timeframe of less than a year.

vertical take-off and landing VTOL QX-4 (Picture source Army Recognition)