Testing Under Way for Russian VRT300 Unmanned Helicopter

VR-Technologies, the Russian Helicopters design bureau, has begun bench testing the systems for its 660-pound (mtow) VRT300 coaxial unmanned helicopter, aiming for a first flight late this year. The initial prototype will be used as a flying testbed for the UAV’s systems and equipment, as well as for testing of its interaction with payload elements and ground-based monitoring and control equipment. The VRT300 is being developed in two versions: Arctic Supervision and Opticvision, the latter with increased flight range to perform monitoring and remote-sensing missions.

The aircraft has a payload capacity of 154 pounds and can be used to transport cargo or carry diverse sensor packages for missions including search-and-rescue, scientific and climate exploration, and patrol. The UAV is equipped with a side-view high-resolution on-board radar for assessment of ice sheet dynamics, and a heavy-oil engine and shipborne capabilities make the Arctic version of VRT300 suitable for icebreakers and drilling platforms. The Opticvision configuration is designed to monitor energy and transportation infrastructure, energy exploration, environmental resources, and conduct mapping.