PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - New Gen AirShips - Hybrid Air Vehicles, UK
Old 23rd Oct 2014, 20:23
  #202 (permalink)  
Mechta
 
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The Israelis certainly seem to understand the benefits of persistent surveillance. What is surprising is how their 'white pumpkins with an underslung seaside windbreak' appear to fly in the face of all previous development of kite balloons. They are in constant evidence around the northern part of Gaza though and seemed to cope with wind pretty well. A very tall tower would be needed to give a camera the same field of view that they have.

Historically, British UAVs and airships have both suffered from a lack of investment, underdeveloped engines (for the application) and a lack of continuous improvement. Some Israeli UAV companies hire their systems out to provide a 'intel by the hour' service, so they get continuous feedback from their in-house operators (not to mention a front line under 100km from the factory) and make sure their products are as reliable and effective as possible. Maybe HAV will consider a similar approach?
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