Challenge (Summary)
Sky-Watch’s Heidrun RQ-35 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is designed to meet the dynamic needs of today’s asymmetrical combat operations. The UAS is controlled by two Ground Control Components (GCCs), which must be rugged enough to withstand the rigours of combat operations but also compact enough for operators to carry for extended periods of time.
Solution (Summary)
Following an extensive review of potential devices to use as its GCCs, Sky-Watch quickly identified Getac’s F110 and K120 fully rugged tablets as ideally suited to its needs. Both devices combine MIL-STD-810H and IP66 certifications, with powerful processors, extensive battery life, and comprehensive connectivity options, all in a compact and light weight form factor.
Benefits (Summary)
With Getac technology at the heart of its Heidrun RQ-35, Sky-Watch is confident that its customers have a UAS solution they can rely on in a wide range of challenging combat environments and adverse weather conditions.
As testament to this, the Heidrun RQ-35 has been trusted by the Armed Forces of Ukraine since March 2022.
Challenge
Sky-Watch is at the forefront of developing, manufacturing, and selling combat-proven Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to defence organisations throughout Europe. The company’s mission is to provide troops with tailored technology solutions that play a pivotal role in contemporary military operations.
Sky-Watch’s flagship RQ-35 Heidrun fixed-wing mini UAS is the embodiment of this. Designed to meet the dynamic needs of today’s asymmetrical combat operations, the RQ-35-Heidrun delivers unmatched reliability, even in the event of electronic warfare or GPS-denied environments.
The Heidrun RQ-35’s lightweight design allows for single-operator handling and quick deployment in the field, with a user-friendly interface that ensures operational readiness within days. Central to this are the Ground Control Components (GCCs) of the solution; two rugged digital devices that act as a mission control centre and portable UAS control station respectively while in the field.
To fulfil their intended role effectively, these devices need to meet a number of key criteria. Firstly, they need to be rugged enough to withstand the challenging environments in which they will be used, including exposure to dust, dirt, grease, mud, water, snow and extreme temperatures, as well as accidental knocks and drops. Secondly, they must be powerful enough to run Sky-Watch’s custom Drone Manager software, whilst also being compact and lightweight enough for operators to carry and use for extended periods of time in the field.
Solution
When designing the Heidrun RQ-35 solution, Sky-watch partnered with reseller NPT to conduct a thorough analysis of the rugged technology market and quickly identified Getac’s K120 and F110 tablets as ideally suited to its GCC requirements.
Both devices are built fully rugged, featuring MIL-STD-810H and IP66 certifications, as well as drop resistance of up to 6-ft and an operating temperature range of -29°C to 63°C (-20°F to 145°F). As a result, field operatives can use them in a wide variety of environments and weather conditions without fear of damage or failure.
The devices also include powerful Intel® Core™ Processors, extensive battery life, and a comprehensive range of connectivity options (including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 and 4G LTE), keeping teams connected to both the UAS and command teams in even remote locations. The addition of dedicated GPS modules enables highly accurate navigation and positioning as well.
On top of all this, the F110 and K120 both have extremely compact form factors for easy operation and are lightweight enough to carry and operate for long periods without fatigue.
“When we tested potential devices for our Heidrun RQ-35 GCC solution, the Getac K120 and F110 ticked the right boxes,” said Thomas Jensen, Sky-Watch VP of Marketing. “Our GCCs need to perform flawlessly in all kinds of conditions and the build quality of both devices, coupled with their rugged credentials, powerful processors and extensive connectivity options made them a great choice.”
Results
With the Getac K120 and F110 at the heart of its Heidrun RQ-35, Sky-Watch is confident that its customers have a UAS solution they can rely on in an incredibly diverse range of conditions and combat environments. As testament to this, the Heidrun RQ-35 has been trusted by the Armed Forces of Ukraine since March 2022 for a wide range of critical reconnaissance and intelligence gathering activities.
In addition, the high-quality look and feel of Getac’s rugged devices aligns well with Sky-Watch’s own design ethos, making them a great fit for the overall look and feel of the Heidrun RQ-35 solution.
“At Sky-Watch, we focus on developing high-quality solutions with well-integrated components, producing an effective end-product,” said Thomas. “Getac’s devices align with our approach due to their rugged magnesium alloy chassis, robust components, extended battery life, and dark finishing colours that suit combat environments.”
ABOUT SKY-WATCH
Founded in 2009, Sky-Watch is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a commitment to supporting troops on the front line and redefining the future of modern-day military operations. The company’s innovative engineering, technologies, training and services provide a best-in-class experience for its clients, who can rely on its products and solutions to come through when it counts the most.
