EDGE, one of the world’s leading advanced technology and defence groups, announced its first major order from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces for the locally-manufactured REACH-S fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the order to supply 100 REACH-S is the first of its kind for the for UAE-made fixed-wing drones. ADVANCED CONCEPTS, a business unit within EDGE dedicated to the design and development of innovative technologies, is currently developing the REACH-S in line with end users’ requirements. ADASI, an EDGE entity which designs and develops autonomous systems, will oversee the production and deliver the contract to the UAE Armed Forces. The REACH-S will provide the UAE Armed Forces with a cost-effective, 24-hour intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability.
Juma Al Kaabi, CEO of ADASI, said: “This significant order demonstrates our expanding expertise in the aerospace sector and our ongoing investment in autonomous systems which meet the UAE Armed Forces’ requirements. Collaborating with ADVANCED CONCEPTS to deliver this solution also exemplifies how synergies between entities within EDGE Group lead to optimised benefits for the end user.”
Saeed Al Mansoori, SVP of ADVANCED CONCEPTS, said: “The development of the REACH-S, one of the first locally-made medium altitude, long endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), marks a significant milestone for EDGE. Thanks to the dedicated team at ADVANCED CONCEPTS, we have successfully completed two flight tests and a weapon release campaign for the REACH-S, and we are currently gearing up for a long-endurance flight test.”
The REACH-S MALE UAV stands as an unparalleled testament to cutting-edge aerial technology. Boasting an array of technical features that redefine unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), its fully automatic flight system coupled with an auto takeoff and landing system ensures seamless operations. What truly sets it apart is its fault-tolerant design, featuring redundant flight control systems, servo actuators, and power systems, guaranteeing uninterrupted missions even in challenging scenarios. Its specifications paint a portrait of excellence: a communication range of 200 km, cruising at 145 km/h with a maximum speed of 200 km/h, an operational altitude of 19,000 ft, and an endurance of an astounding 24 hours. With a wing span of 12 meters and a length of 5.5 meters, this UAV embodies efficiency without compromise. Its automatic takeoff and landing capabilities further enhance its versatility. Moreover, with a maximum takeoff weight of 640 kg and a payload capacity of 120 kg, it proves itself as a powerhouse of capability. Fueled by gasoline and propelled by a robust 110 hp engine, the REACH-S MALE UAV stands at the forefront of ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and precision ground attack, setting a new standard in unmanned aviation excellence.
