Image: Airbus
Germany has successfully launched the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Remote Carrier demonstrator, released by a A400M. The launch was carried out by the Bundeswehr Technical Center for Aircraft and Aeronautical Equipment (BAAINBw) and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), with collaboration from Airbus and German companies SFL and Geradts.
The Remote Carrier demonstrator — an altered Airbus Do-DT25 drone — was launched from a device created specifically for the A400M to release remote carriers. After the remote carrier was launched, its Do-DT25 engines were ignited, and it continued to fly. Controls from the A400M were then handed to the ground operator who landed the drone successfully.
As a part of the launch, the A400M was also evaluated to determine its role in FCAS to serve as a UAV launcher. Because the launch results were successful, Airbus is aiming to have the multi-role air lifter serve as the host of remote carriers. The remote carriers and A400Ms will have an integral role in expanding the use of unmanned systems by Airbus’s military transport aircraft in the FCAS.