The PD-100 Black Hornet Nano Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) – developed by Prox Dynamics AS of Norway – is the first airborne Personal Reconnaissance System of its kind.
British troops are using the state-of-the-art mini surveillance drone in Afghanistan. Weighing only 16 grams, the Black Hornet Nano measures around 10 cm x 2,5 cm and provides troops on the ground with vital situational awareness.
The Black Hornet is equipped with a tiny camera, which gives troops reliable full-motion video and still images. Soldiers are using the stealthy PD-100 to peer around corners or over walls and other obstacles to identify any hidden dangers and the images are displayed on a handheld terminal.
This revolutionary new system is carried easily on patrol (the complete system fits inside a pocket) and is capable of performing in harsh environments and windy conditions.
Sergeant Christopher Petherbridge of the Brigade Reconnaissance Force in Afghanistan said: “Black Hornet is definitely adding value, especially considering the light weight nature of it. We used it to look for insurgent firing points and check out exposed areas of the ground before crossing, which is a real asset. It is very easy to operate and offers amazing capability to the guys on the ground.”
Source: Ministry of Defence, UK
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