Singapore Technologies Aerospace company unveiled a unique unmanned system at the Singapore Airshow today, this yet unnamed system can launch from a deck of a ship or from land, fly for about 15 minutes, dive underwater and loiter for three hours on a submerged mission. The developers claim this concept of operation is faster and more efficient for quick reaction surveillance missions, as the hybrid drone can deploy faster than conventional boats or unmanned surface vessels. Typical missions for the new hybrid drone are mine detection and clearance, as well as underwater inspection, search and rescue.
Apart from speed, another benefit is its ability to maneuver quickly underwater and unhindered to the point of interest. The electrically powered drone can carry various payloads weighing up to three kilograms, including various sonars and inspection equipment for underwater surveillance.