DSEI 2023: UMS Skeldar & Ultra Maritime unveil ASW version of Skeldar V-200.

On September 12, 2023, at DSEI 2023, UMS SKELDAR and Ultra Maritime unveiled their jointly developed anti-submarine warfare (ASW) solution.
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UMS Skeldar V-200 VTOL Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

This advanced Rotary Wing UAS, designed to dispense ASW sonobuoys, is a significant upgrade to the SKELDAR V-200 Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS). This project was initiated under the auspices of the Canadian Department of National Defence’s IDEaS program.

The enhanced SKELDAR V-200 can now efficiently deploy sonobuoys, allowing for better monitoring and detection of potential submarine threats in expansive oceanic regions or near shorelines, thereby bolstering defenses for naval forces worldwide.

Prior to this innovation, unmanned rotorcraft of this size faced challenges in identifying underwater threats, as only larger aircraft, whether crewed or uncrewed, were equipped to release sonobuoys.

However, the need for a rapid ship-based responder capable of deploying passive sonobuoys was evident, and this advancement addresses that gap in ASW operations.

Those attending DSEI can get a closer look at this cutting-edge ASW solution at the UMS SKELDAR display area in Hall 5.

Technical data about the Skeldar V-200

Measuring 4.031 m in length, 1.2 m in width, and 1.3 m in height, it is designed for various aerial tasks. The main rotor diameter is 4.6 m, providing stability during its flights.

The Skeldar has a maximum takeoff weight of 245 kg and can reach altitudes of up to 2,400 m. It boasts a payload capacity of 40 kg, accommodating equipment or cargo necessary for its missions.

Performance-wise, the Skeldar can achieve speeds of up to 140 km/h and has a mission radius of 100 km. It offers an endurance of over 6 hours, powered by an engine with a rating of 55 hp. The aerial system can reach a service ceiling of 3,000 m.