SATNUS Achieves Milestone in European Defense with Successful NGWS/FCAS Flight Tests

In a significant advancement for European defense collaboration, SATNUS Technologies S.L., a consortium comprising GMV, Sener Aeroespacial, and Tecnobit-Grupo Oesía, has successfully completed its inaugural flight test campaign for the Next Generation Weapon System (NGWS) under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. These tests were conducted at the El Arenosillo Experimentation Centre (CEDEA) in Huelva, Spain, marking a pivotal step in the trilateral defense partnership between Spain, France, and Germany.

Advancing Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUT)

The primary focus of this campaign was to advance Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUT) technologies, a core component of Pillar 3 within the NGWS/FCAS program. This involves the development of Remote Carriers—remotely controlled aircraft systems—that can operate in conjunction with both manned and unmanned platforms, thereby enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of air combat operations.

Comprehensive Flight Test Campaign

Over a two-week period, multiple validation flights were executed using the Manned-Unmanned Teaming & Common Systems Demonstrator (MCSD), a modified target drone system. Supported by Spain’s National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA), the campaign successfully achieved its objectives, laying a solid foundation for future developments.

Key Areas of Validation

The tests concentrated on several critical areas:

• Structural Enhancements: Assessing modifications to the drone's airframe to ensure durability and performance.
• Advanced Remote Control Capabilities: Evaluating improved control mechanisms for more precise operations.
• Upgraded Communication Systems: Testing enhanced communication links between the drone and ground control stations.
• Flight Termination System (FTS): Integrating and validating a system to safely terminate flights if necessary.

Development of Support Systems

In addition to the flight tests, SATNUS evaluated initial versions of two critical ground-based systems:

• Demo Information Management (DIM) System: Designed to handle data management during test operations.
• Command and Control (C2) System: A prototype system to oversee and direct Remote Carrier operations.

Both systems performed effectively, contributing valuable insights for future operational deployments.

Simulation Tool for Collaborative Operations

A notable achievement of the campaign was the successful testing of a multi-platform simulation tool. This tool integrates real and simulated aircraft into a unified test environment, which is essential for preparing future collaborative missions involving multiple MCSD platforms.

Looking Ahead

Building on the success of these initial tests, SATNUS is progressing into Phase 1B of the NGWS program. The ultimate objective is to demonstrate comprehensive Manned-Unmanned Teaming capabilities, with multiple Remote Carriers operating cohesively in real-world flight scenarios.

This accomplishment underscores SATNUS's commitment to advancing Europe's future air combat capabilities through innovative technology and international collaboration.