GIDS Shahpar
The GIDS Shahpar is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) built by Global Industrial Defence Solutions of Pakistan and used by the Pakistani military. It is currently in production following the completion of a test and qualification phase.[1]
GIDS Shahpar | |
---|---|
The GIDS Shahpar UAV on display in Pakistan. | |
Role | Reconnaissance |
Manufacturer | Global Industrial Defence Solutions |
Introduction | 2012 |
Status | In service |
Primary users | Pakistan Air Force Pakistan Army |
Produced | ~2012 |
Number built | 10 (as of 2012, production ongoing) |
According to an engineer of AERO (Advanced Engineering Research Organisation), one of the seven companies forming the GIDS consortium, the only parts of the Shahpar aircraft system not produced in Pakistan are the engine and tyres. The sensor suite, a multi-sensor turret designated "Zumr-1 (EP)", is built at an AERO facility near Islamabad. The design features a pusher engine with canard foreplanes in front of the wings.[2]
The Shahpar is designed to autonomously take off and land on a runway or land with a parachute. Payloads are available for reconnaissance and day/night surveillance. Targets on the ground can be geo-referenced and geo-pointed by the avionics. The military standard hardware is built to Environmental Standard 810F. Ground equipment is capable of mission planning and simulation; mission management and control as well as debriefing of ground crew.[3]
The Shahpar has been operational since 2012 when two flights entered service with the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Army. Each flight is made up of five aircraft, a communications station and a ground control station.[2]
Specifications
General characteristics
- Capacity: 50 kg (110 lb) payload
- Length: 4.2 m (13 ft 9 in)
- Wingspan: 6.6 m (21 ft 8 in)
- Gross weight: 480 kg (1,058 lb)
Performance
- Cruise speed: 150 km/h (93 mph, 81 kn)
- Endurance: 7 hours
- Service ceiling: 5,000 m (16,000 ft)
Avionics
- Zumr-I (EP) multi-sensor turret
- Autonomous GPS-based tracking and control system
- Real-time data link (range 250 km)
References
- Donald, David (21 Feb 2013). "UAVs from Pakistan". IDEX 2013 News. Jane's IHS. Retrieved 5 March 2013.
- CAVAS, CHRISTOPHER P. (19 Feb 2013). "IDEX: Explosion of UAVs at Exhibit". Defense News. Retrieved 5 March 2013.
- "SHAHPAR UAV System". Official GIDS website. Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS). Retrieved 16 March 2013.