Two new small uncrewed aerial system (UAS) drones impressed artillery personnel during their first introduction into service courses at Puckapunyal last month.

The SYPAQ CorvoX and Quantum Vector drones are being introduced as part of the DEF129 UAS project.

The CorvoX is configured with the Corvo Guarda 70-DN Electro Optical/Infrared payload, delivering thermal imaging performance, enabling it to operate in darkness, smoke and most fog.

Major Daniel Fleming, of the School of Artillery, said both platforms allowed soldiers greater scope to find the enemy.

“[A] UAS provides a wide range of utility to artillery and combined arms,” Major Fleming said.

“The most significant would be in the ability to locate, identify and assist in the prosecution of targets.

“Both the CorvoX and Vector can provide grid references and descriptions of the targets, allowing for personnel to search larger areas for targets from relative safety.”

The Vector 2-in-1 fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing UAS delivers real-time, high-resolution video for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

It is a backpack-portable unit, which can be operational in three minutes. It can take off and land in confined spaces without the need for additional tools or equipment.

'[A] UAS provides a wide range of utility to artillery and combined arms.'

Bombardier Alexander Ubank, of the School of Artillery, said the training delivered by Quantum was of a high standard.

“The instructors’ background in the Army’s 20th Regiment gave them a strong understanding of both Defence and UAS operations,” Bombardier Ubank said.

“The system itself is quick and simple to learn, extremely robust and features intuitive controls. The aircraft is also very straightforward to deploy.”

Major Fleming said both platforms were improvements on current models.

“SYPAQ CorvoX is a small and robust system, which is quick to employ and delivers a good electro optical and infrared video feed,” he said.

“It uses a fixed-wing vertical and take-off system to launch within a tight area, and provides 40 minutes of endurance for up to five kilometres of range.

“While a bit larger, the Vector 2-in-1 can also be rapidly deployed to fly for up to three hours and at a range of 15 kilometres.

“Vector is a very user-friendly experience, which will easily replace Wasp and Puma systems.”

The SYPAQ CorvoX and Quantum Vector small UAS platforms are expected to be introduced into service soon.