Defense and technology company EDGE Group has introduced what it says is the first family of multirotor loitering munitions developed in the United Arab Emirates.
The QX range of munitions was introduced during the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2021) taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
The QX family of loitering munitions comprises four products: QX-1, a micro-UAV, QX-2, a mini-UAV, QX-3, a small UAV, and QX-4, which features a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fixed wing.
The precision-guided systems use AI algorithms to target and strike, boasting an accuracy of 1 m CEP (circular error probable) – with an aim similar to laser guided munitions.
The second range of loitering munitions consists of Shadow 50 and Shadow 25. They can carry payloads of 50kg and 25kg, respectively, and leverage Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) in addition to flying with video navigation systems in GPS denied environments.
“Right now, drone technology is revolutionizing our world with the full potential of unmanned and autonomous capabilities still to be further explored – not just in the military sector, but the commercial sector too,” Faisal Al Bannai, CEO & managing director, EDGE, said.
“Through launching the first UAE-made family of smart loitering drones, EDGE marks a significant milestone as a key technology enabler and in boosting the country’s autonomous capabilities and AI integration.”
In addition to QX and Shadow, EDGE else showcased the Rash 2 fixed-wing guidance kit for mortars and other in-house designed payloads, capable of gliding in flight and directing munitions to ground targets. They are available in different sizes to accommodate varying payload capacities, ranges, and endurance.
ADASI, a subsidiary of EDGE focusing on unmanned systems, has secured and AED 55 million (approx. USD15M) contract to supply Rash 2 to the UAE Armed Forces, marking the first order of the newly launched product.
