Schiebel, in collaboration with MDA Space, showcased the advanced capabilities of IMSAR’s NSP synthetic aperture radar (SAR) during an intensive trial at the Foremost UAS Test Range in western Canada. Spanning a week, the trial emphasized the radar’s sophisticated ground and maritime moving target indicator (GMTI/MMTI) functions, seamlessly integrated into the CAMCOPTER S-100, a versatile vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone used for military and civilian applications.
Cutting-Edge Integration for Advanced Missions
The integration of IMSAR’s NSP radar into the CAMCOPTER S-100 represents a significant leap in surveillance technology. The radar electronics are housed in a compact pod, supported by onboard software that facilitates intuitive mission planning. Operators can effortlessly upload radar flight plans, enhancing efficiency and ease of use.
During the trials, the CAMCOPTER S-100, equipped with IMSAR’s radar, Wescam’s MX-8 electro-optical/infrared sensor, anti-jamming GPS, and an automatic identification system (AIS), successfully conducted simulated ground and maritime missions. The platform delivered high-resolution SAR imagery and precise GMTI tracking under challenging weather conditions, both day and night. The system’s range of over 100 nautical miles further underscores its capabilities.
Neil Hunter, Global Sales Manager at Schiebel, highlighted the platform’s enhanced performance: “The integration of IMSAR’s radar with the S-100, combined with a powerful electro-optical/infrared sensor, significantly broadens the platform’s surveillance and detection capabilities. These trials confirm the S-100’s ability to deliver actionable intelligence in real time across vast areas and in all weather conditions.”
Enhanced Surveillance for Complex Operations
The integration of the NSP radar enhances the CAMCOPTER S-100’s ability to detect and track targets in complex and hostile environments. In anti-maritime trafficking missions, for instance, the radar can identify and monitor small, fast-moving vessels in real time, even under adverse weather conditions or complete darkness. By combining GMTI/MMTI detection with high-resolution SAR imagery, operators can pinpoint suspicious vessels over 100 nautical miles away, analyze their movements, and relay data to intervention units in real time. This capability greatly enhances operational efficiency for border security and search-and-rescue missions.
The CAMCOPTER S-100: A Proven Platform
The CAMCOPTER S-100 is renowned for its VTOL capability, requiring no runways or additional infrastructure. Constructed with a durable carbon-fiber and titanium fuselage, it can carry payloads of up to 34 kg (75 lbs) and sustain operations for up to 10 hours. Its ability to operate beyond the line of sight and in GPS-denied environments makes it an indispensable tool for defense and commercial applications.
First introduced in 2003, the S-100 was developed by Schiebel to address both military and civilian needs. Over the years, it has undergone multiple technological upgrades, enhancing its sensors, endurance, and communication systems. Today, it is employed by armed forces and civilian operators in over 40 countries, solidifying its reputation as one of the most reliable VTOL systems in the world.
Global Adoption and Versatility
Since its launch, the CAMCOPTER S-100 has been widely adopted by military, civilian, and government organizations. Early adopters included the United Arab Emirates, which acquired the system in 2006 for enhanced surveillance capabilities. Over the years, countries such as Germany, France, Australia, India, and China have utilized the S-100 for reconnaissance, maritime surveillance, and border security missions. Notably, the Italian Navy incorporated the drone into its maritime operations in 2010, followed by the Egyptian Navy in 2020. Most recently, Indonesia expanded its fleet in 2023 for exclusive economic zone monitoring. These sales underscore the platform’s versatility and reliability across diverse operational contexts.
Commitment to Innovation
The partnership between Schiebel and IMSAR exemplifies a commitment to innovation, addressing the growing demand for advanced surveillance solutions for VTOL platforms. The integration of the NSP radar into the CAMCOPTER S-100 sets a new benchmark for unmanned aerial systems, enabling superior surveillance and target detection capabilities in a wide range of applications.