Advancements in Tactical UAVs: The XTENDER by XTEND
Introduction to the XTENDER System
At the forefront of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology suited for indoor reconnaissance is the XTENDER system, developed by the Israeli firm XTEND. This innovative platform, unveiled at the recent LandEuro exhibition, is designed to enhance situational awareness and mission success in complex environments, particularly within urban landscapes and confined spaces.
Technical Specifications
The XTENDER is a quadcopter with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities, weighing 1.2 kg—including its battery. Significant features include:
- Compact Design: Measuring 300mm x 300mm x 99mm, this UAV is tailored for operations in tight quarters, facilitating mobility in indoor scenarios.
- Integrated Optronics: Its optronic suite is securely embedded within a carbon fiber chassis, safeguarding rotors from potential collisions with surfaces, a common hazard in urban operations.
- Payload Versatility: An additional 150-gram optronic system can be attached to enhance its Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Operational Features
Engineered for short-duration missions, the XTENDER boasts a maximum speed of 12 km/h and an operational endurance of approximately 10 minutes. Key operational features include:
- Advanced Navigation: Equipped to navigate effectively in GNSS-denied environments, making it ideal for urban operations where GPS signals may be unreliable.
- Secure Communication: Utilizes an AES-256 encrypted data link operating in the 1.6-2.4GHz range, with an operational radius of 1.5 to 2 km depending on the conditions.
User-Friendly Interface
The XTENDER incorporates a user-centric design, enabling rapid deployment and ease of use:
- Fast Setup: Ready for operation in under 40 seconds, the UAV can be launched by hand or from an aerial platform.
- Intuitive Control Systems: The system features a lightweight joystick and augmented reality head visor, with visuals also accessible on a rugged tablet. This design promotes ease of operation, reducing the training burden for inexperienced personnel.
Enhanced Imaging Capabilities
Equipped with a Starlight Low Light camera complemented by dual flood lights, the XTENDER excels in low-visibility conditions. The integration of artificial intelligence further enhances its functionality, allowing for:
- Target Classification and Tracking: Autonomous capabilities enable the UAV to identify and monitor targets effectively, providing operators with augmented reality visualizations to guide decision-making.
Tactical Applications
The XTENDER is particularly beneficial for military, special operations, and law enforcement agencies engaged in high-risk scenarios, such as:
- Reconnaissance in Complicated Environments: Its design allows for discreet information-gathering missions within buildings, helping to mitigate risks to human operators.
- IED Detection and Area Security: The UAV can be utilized to identify improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and booby traps, thereby enhancing safety during urban combat operations.
Collective Operations
The XTENDER possesses swarm functionality, allowing multiple units to operate concurrently—even in environments lacking GPS support. This capability significantly amplifies operational effectiveness during complex missions, promoting collaboration among various teams.
Conclusion
The XTENDER UAV represents a significant advancement in tactical unmanned aerial systems, particularly for operations requiring heightened situational awareness in challenging environments. Its robust technological features, combined with user-friendly interfaces and tactical versatility, position it as a vital asset for modern military and law enforcement units globally, including those among the Special Forces of the United States and Israel, where it is already actively employed. Photos courtesy of XTEND and J. Roukoz.
