BAE Systems Australia, in collaboration with aeronautical technology company Innovaero, has announced the successful first flight of STRIX, a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The flight, conducted in late October at a remote location in Australia, marks a significant milestone in the development of this unique aircraft.
Unveiled to the public last February at Australia’s Avalon Air Show, STRIX is designed primarily for military use. This uncrewed aircraft features a tail-sitting VTOL design, capable of flying autonomously or by long-range remote control. Its compact and transportable structure is one of its standout features. With foldable offset wings, STRIX can be rolled on its four small wheels into a standard-sized shipping container for easy transit.
When operational, STRIX eliminates the need for a traditional runway. It rests at an upward-slanted angle and transitions into a vertical position as its four propellers engage. This enables a nose-up vertical takeoff, followed by a smooth transition to horizontal flight for forward motion. The aircraft lands in reverse, settling back onto all fours.
The full-scale prototype tested in October was powered entirely by electricity, a move aimed at “fast-tracking flight testing and reducing program risk,” according to BAE Systems. The production version, however, is planned to include a hybrid fuel-electric power system, which would allow STRIX to carry a 160-kg (353-lb) payload over distances of up to 800 kilometers (500 miles).
The recent flight demonstrated STRIX’s Vehicle Management System, which autonomously controlled the aircraft during critical phases such as launch, maneuvering, sustained hover, and recovery. An operator was present to take remote manual control if necessary, though intervention was not required.
“Major flight test objectives were achieved, including safe and autonomous control of an all-new VTOL aircraft configuration never flown before in the history of flight,” said Andrew Gresham, Managing Director of BAE Systems Australia’s Defence Delivery business unit.
With its successful maiden flight, STRIX moves closer to production, highlighting its potential in expanding the operational capabilities of uncrewed aerial vehicles.
Source: BAE Systems
