Story ID: 126b
Insitu Launches ScanEagle 3
By: Mark Huber
Caption: New Civil UAS Will Carry Multiple Payloads
Word Count: 180

Boeing subsidiary Insitu last month unveiled a new midsize fixed-wing UAS aimed at the commercial market—the ScanEagle3. As a commercial vehicle, it is not covered by U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The new UAS can carry up to three payloads simultaneously and is compatible with existing ScanEagle system control, communications, and recovery components.

“Our engineers have been very successful at reducing ScanEagle3 lifecycle costs and increasing operating efficiency,” said Matt Bartow, Insitu’s chief technology officer. ScanEagle3 features a ground-adjustable aero-package that enables a large center of gravity range that facilitates more payload integration options. Other enhancements include next-generation avionics, a new purpose-built propulsion system that increases reliability while reducing lifecycle costs, and the same autopilot as in the RQ-21A Blackjack.

Jon Damush, Insitu’s chief growth officer, said ScanEagle3’s additional payload capabilities will give operators the “capability to satisfy multiple payload missions” and pointed out that the ability to “simultaneously collect multiple data types during a flight improves efficiency and affordability.”

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