The collaboration will integrate Airbus’ new HTeaming system onboard the H225M, enabling its crew to control the Flexrotor during joint operations. The demonstration will assess how combined use of manned and unmanned systems can support more effective air missions in complex environments.
“Crewed-uncrewed teaming offers the great potential to support more effective air operations in complex environments,” said DSTA Chief Executive Mr Ng Chad-Son. “Working with Airbus Helicopters, we will be able to combine our engineering expertise to unlock new possibilities in helicopter-drone integration. This synergistic combination of manned platforms and autonomous systems will be a true force multiplier.”
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating: “The collaboration between helicopters and UAS is a revolution in how we approach mission effectiveness. Synergising the strengths of highly skilled pilots with the advanced capabilities of uncrewed systems unlocks unprecedented operational flexibility.”
He further emphasised the value of real-world testing, saying: “Working with operators to mature these technologies and test our solutions with real life demonstrations is very important.” On the aircraft’s reliability, he added: “The H225M is a proven platform which has been tailored for complex missions like search and rescue by night in rough weather conditions.”
Praising the RSAF’s operational proficiency, Even noted: “The Republic of Singapore Air Force has demonstrated on multiple occasions that it masters the capabilities of this aircraft. I am sure that by working with Singapore’s DSTA and the RSAF we will be able to demonstrate the added value of teaming and how it can further extend the capabilities of the H225M.”
HTeaming, Airbus’ newly launched modular crewed-uncrewed teaming system, consists of a modem, four antennas, a tablet and supporting software. The system is designed to maximise coordination and control between helicopters and uncrewed systems in a variety of mission profiles.
