Flexible, customisable solution, unrestricted and with unlimited uses

Leading a close-knit team of like-minded innovators, CADG Aeronautical Innovations has developed the HELIX intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platform, consisting of both airborne and ground control elements to offer an integrated ISR solution.

The platform uses an ES-15 single-engined sircraft as the system’s airborne element, equipped with Hensoldt’s ARGOS II camera and two additional hard points for integration of additional payloads, which are entirely customisable to client-specific requirements. 

Sensor output is transmitted via data link to a ground control station (GCS), where the intelligence is viewed in real time.  The components of the GCS are ruggedized, allowing for high mobility and rapid deployment for ISR missions.  CADG intends HELIX to be a flexible, customisable solution, unrestricted and with unlimited uses.

CADG Aeronautical Innovations is the specialised aviation and ISR wing of the CADG group of companies, focused on providing ISR services and support while also owning and operating a proprietary ISR platform. To this end, it has developed the HELIX ISR platform in close collaboration with partners ECARYS (aircraft manufacturer) and S-PLANE (systems supplier). Although CADG owns HELIX, all aircraft and platform support are provided by the entire team.

ECARYS, a subsidiary of German sports aircraft manufacturer STEMME AG, brings its many years of experience to one of the most efficient platforms for airborne surveillance, reconnaissance and research challenges.  Cooperation with commercial partners, scientific establishments and various governments worldwide have fueled development of the ES15 and its modular capabilities. The platform is sensor agnostic, and is supplied ready for tailored integration of optical, radar or other intelligent sensor systems, according to customer requirements.

S-PLANE Automation (Pty) Ltd is an international aerospace company specialising in the delivery of complete certification-ready automation, simulation, communication and GCS solutions for ISR aircraft systems.  The company combines market-leading products with systems engineering, integration and test support services to customise solutions and deliver them to a wide range of clients.  S-PLANE’s solutions and experience span civil and military, manned and unmanned, fixed- and rotary-wing.  Most Notably, the company’s solutions have been used to create unmanned and/or optionally piloted vehicles (UAV/OPV), and manned ISR aircraft.  
The team led CADG Aeronautical Innovations is now adding the HELIX ISR capability to the company’s well-established capabilities and footprint across Africa and the Middle East.