Orbital develops UAV engine for Aerosonde

Perth unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) engine manufacturer Orbital Corporation has delivered an initial prototype of an 150cc engine it is developing for Lycoming Engines for eventual integration into Textron Systems’ Aerosonde system (pictured).

Ironically the Aerosonde was originally an Australian development, completing the first trans-Pacific UAV crossing, and the inclusion of an Australian engine would be a major coup for Orbital.

Orbital already produces engines for Boeing’s Insitu subsidiary’s UAVs with the latest development a major expansion of the company’s potential markets.

Orbital told investors Lycoming would evaluate the engine which would be followed by further integration and design customisation.

The new engine includes Orbital’s proprietary fuel and engine control systems.

Orbital UAV managing director Todd Alder said: This represents good progress on our newest engine development and integration program.

“Working closely with Textron Systems and Lycoming we are driving the development timeline to ensure we are able to smoothly transition into production and the agreed supply contract in 2022.”

Picture: Orbital Corporation

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