Greek company Spirit Aeronautical Develops SARISA SRS-1A Combat Drone for Close Air Support.

The Greek company Spirit Aeronautical Systems is currently showcasing the SARISA SRS-1A at AUSA 2024, a multirotor drone designed to provide close air support (CAS) to ground units. With its modular configuration, the SARISA SRS-1A allows for the adaptation of various weapon systems to meet the specific tactical needs of the field. Primarily designed for military missions, this model represents an advancement in close air support capabilities, offering a robust and flexible solution for on-the-ground operations.
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Spirit Aeronautical SARISA SRS-1A Combat Drone  (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The SARISA SRS-1A stands out for its ability to carry a significant offensive payload while remaining easily deployable in various tactical environments. With a maximum payload capacity of 25 kg and a takeoff weight exceeding 60 kg, the drone is designed to integrate diverse weapon systems and provide direct fire support to ground units.

The key feature of the SRS-1A lies in its modularity: it is equipped with a single or dual rocket launcher compatible with munitions such as the well-known 2.75-inch HYDRA 70. Commonly used by NATO forces and mounted on attack helicopters such as the Apache AH-64, the HYDRA 70 represents a valuable strategic asset for close support missions. The SARISA SRS-1A thus enables this weapon capability to be mounted on light ground vehicles, offering units a flexible, rapid-engagement option where traditional air support may be less accessible or responsive.

Compact and optimized for tactical deployments, the SARISA SRS-1A combines a reduced footprint with high operational efficiency, with dimensions of 165 cm in length, 218 cm in width, and 45 cm in height. It offers continuous flight autonomy of up to 20 minutes under maximum payload, making it ideal for quick strikes or resupply missions in hostile environments, thus meeting the demands of short-range missions that require reactivity and precision.

The versatility of the SARISA SRS-1A extends beyond its air support function. Thanks to its modular rack system, the drone can be re-equipped for varied missions beyond attack operations. With minimal adjustments, the SARISA can be configured for tactical transport missions, allowing resupply of essential equipment or ammunition to ground units, which proves crucial in isolated or hard-to-access environments.

This quick reconfiguration capability and modular design provide the SRS-1A with a vital role on the modern battlefield. Integrating both offensive support and logistical functions, it meets the varied needs of armed forces and contributes to operational logistics optimization on the ground.

Spirit Aeronautical Systems S.A., a member of the Spirit World Group of Companies, demonstrates, with the SARISA SRS-1A, its ability to meet the evolving needs of modern armies. Based in Greece, the company benefits from technical and engineering facilities in Glyka Nera, enabling it to develop UAV solutions tailored to the new requirements of contemporary battlefields.

SAS Technology collaborated with the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (EAS) on the Sarisa UAV program, with support from Thales Belgium, a division of the Thales Group, which provided test ammunition and certified the use of 70 mm rockets for the SRS-1A model. During testing, the drone demonstrated its launcher angle adjustment system, precise targeting capabilities even in challenging wind conditions, and reduced rocket exhaust effects through aerodynamic and mechanical improvements. Following these successful results, SAS Technology is now preparing for operational tests with production models of the SARISA UAV.