A new package of US military assistance to Ukraine provides for the transfer of ScanEagle reconnaissance drones.
The US Army has been using such drones since 2004, and the Navy since 2005. Such a drone is designed for surveillance and reconnaissance, it can monitor the enemy day and night “in the most extreme conditions of the world.” The payload, if necessary, can be replaced in the field by equipping the drone for shooting, relaying communications or aiming fire. This was reported on the official website of the manufacturer The Boeing Insitu.
It is noted that this UAV is equipped with an engine that runs on heavy fuel or gasoline. This device observes from the sky using the EO950 electro-optical module, which includes a camera and a telescope for approaching, as well as a mid-infrared camera. Everything recorded by the drone can be written to a medium or transmitted directly to the operator through a secure digital channel.
The maximum takeoff weight of the drone is 26.5 kg, and the payload weight is 5 kg. ScanEagle can be in flight for 18 hours. Its maximum speed is 148 km/h.
Each such “bird” costs more than 19 million dollars. According to Defense News, the Pentagon is sending 15 ScanEagles drones to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They can help Ukrainian fighters aim important hostile objects at the target.
Recall, on August 19, the Pentagon announced the provision of a new package of military assistance to Ukraine totaling $775 million. USA. The Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive ammunition for HIMARS rocket systems, 16 105-mm howitzers and 36,000 rounds, 15 ScanEagle reconnaissance drones, HARM anti-radar missiles, and TOW and Javelin anti-tank systems.
Source: Defense News
Source: Racurs
