The trial assessed how uncrewed aircraft could support maritime logistics and disaster-relief operations. It also marked a further step in the Royal Navy’s work to integrate uncrewed aviation systems with surface vessels.
The Malloy T-150B can carry payloads of up to 68kg and remain airborne for up to 40 minutes. Its top speed is 60mph, while its range varies from 13km to 37.5km depending on the payload.
The quadcopter can operate during the day or at night and is equipped with thermal imaging technology. The Royal Navy said it could transport food, water, medical aid and other supplies to communities isolated by natural disasters.
“This new capability is a fantastic addition to our toolset for humanitarian aid and disaster relief,” said Commander Gavin Lowe, HMS Trent’s Commanding Officer. “The team have worked hard to integrate the system into our operations and we’re all very pleased to see the concept realised.”
Scout Flight personnel from 700X Naval Air Squadron conducted a series of flights to familiarise operators and the ship’s company with the system. The work included launching and recovering the drone from a moving vessel at sea.
The trial demonstrated that a heavy-lift drone could be incorporated into established maritime aviation procedures. Scout Flight worked with HMS Trent’s bridge and flight-deck teams throughout the activity.
HMS Trent’s flight deck routinely supports aircraft up to the size of a Merlin helicopter. The Malloy introduces a different operating model and could support future ship-to-shore resupply missions.
“Working with HMS Trent, we have gained valuable experience in operating uncrewed systems from the flight deck of a River Class Batch 2, paving the way for more complex resupply operations in the future,” said Lieutenant Charles Harper, Scout Flight Commander. “The lessons identified during this activity will inform future training, experimentation and capability development as we continue to explore the potential of uncrewed systems at sea.”
