Aircraft, UAV, Helicopters and C4I Systems Highlighted
Competing for attention from the many high-level delegates and visitors to IDEX and NAVDEX in Abu Dhabi this week, Airbus is focusing its attention on demonstrating the width of its product and solutions portfolio.
Airbus Defence and Space displays a mock-up of the A330MRTT, the aircraft that dominates the transport/tanker market outside the USA and has been ordered by 12 nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. A total of 35 aircraft have been delivered of the 60 currently on order. It is combat-proven in coalition operations and has completed more than 170,000 flight hours in service, refueling virtually all current front-line fighters.
An A400M is also showcased at the Airbus booth. Featuring state-of-the-art technologies, the A400M can conduct strategic and tactical transport missions. Also featured will be the ZEPHYR, the solar-electric stratospheric unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that combines the advantages of a satellite with the flexibility and persistence of a UAV.
A smart maritime centre is featured in the Airbus Defence and Space presence at IDEX, showing how data can be transformed into actionable knowledge, with such dedicated solutions as STYRIS, the coastal surveillance system deployed in 55 countries; OceanFinder, a web platform that organises satellite-based maritime detection and identification reports; and I4D, a set of systems for multi-source data management, visualisation, analysis and fusion, allowing for smart decision-making.
Airbus Helicopters presents a mock-up of the VSR700 rotary-wing UAV, which can bring beyond-the-horizon surveillance capabilities to naval vessels. The NH90 NFH, which can be accommodated aboard a wide range of warships and is a highly versatile naval helicopter, can also be viewed at Airbus booth.
Airbus has enjoyed a strong and positive presence in the Middle East since it first opened regional offices more than four decades ago. Over the years, Airbus has initiated a number of strategic partnerships in the region that have contributed to development of the industry by providing the best of expertise, services and products. Today, the Middle East plays an important role in international business and is a key regional market for Airbus.
Airbus‘ continued exploration of the potential for UAV applications finds new emphasis in the VRS 700 rotary-wing platform. (Photo: Airbus)
The A400M and A330 Multi-Role Tanker/Transport (ordered by Saudi Arabia and the UAE) continues to attract serious interest from regional air forces. (Photo: DPM)
