Miniature surveillance helicopters help protect frontline troops
Pictures show soldiers using the Black Hornet Nano Unmanned Air Vehicle on the frontline. It measures around 4 inches by 1 inch and provides troops on the ground with vital situational awareness.
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Black Hornet is equipped with a tiny camera, which gives troops reliable full motion video and still images. Soldiers are using it to peer around corners or over walls and other obstacles to identify any hidden dangers and the images are displayed on a handheld terminal.
This new system is the size of a child’s toy, so is carried easily on patrol and is capable of performing in harsh environments and windy conditions.
Black Hornet weighs as little as 16 grams and has been developed by Prox Dynamics AS of Norway as part of a £20 million contract for 160 units with Marlborough Communications Ltd (MCL), Surrey.
Sergeant Christopher Petherbridge, of the Brigade Reconnaissance Force in Afghanistan, said: “Black Hornet is definitely adding value, especially considering the light weight nature of it. We used it to look for insurgent firing points and check out exposed areas of the ground before crossing which is a real asset. It is very easy to operate and offers amazing capability to the guys on the ground.”
Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology, Philip Dunne, said: “Black Hornet gives our troops the benefits of surveillance in the palm of their hands. It is extremely light and portable whilst out on patrol.
“Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems are a key component in our 10 year equipment plan and now that we have balanced the defence budget we are able to confidently invest in these kinds of cutting-edge technologies.”
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© UK Crown Copyright 2013
