ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has initiated the procurement of SchiebelGroup’s CAMCOPTER S-100 unmanned air systems, marking a significantenhancement in its maritime reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities,multiple defence sources confirmed on Friday.
The acquisition aims to integrate the rotary-wing tactical drones aboardnaval vessels, enabling persistent ship-based operations over vast seaareas previously dependent on manned helicopters.
The CAMCOPTER S-100 is a proven vertical takeoff and landing platform thathas been deployed by several navies worldwide, including those ofAustralia, China and several European states.
Equipped with beyond-line-of-sight data links extending up to 200kilometres, the system can operate day and night in adverse weatherconditions and transmit high-definition imagery in real time to the controlstation.
Its carbon fibre and titanium construction supports payload configurationsof up to 34 kilograms with endurance exceeding ten hours when powered byAVGas or heavy JP-5 fuel, reaching altitudes of 18,000 feet.
Defence analysts view the induction as part of Pakistan Navy’s broadermodernisation drive to counter evolving regional maritime threats andsecure exclusive economic zone interests.
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The platform’s compact size and ability to deploy from frigates andoffshore patrol vessels without requiring large flight decks make itparticularly suitable for the navy’s current fleet composition.
Official statements from the Navy or Schiebel Group were not immediatelyavailable, though industry sources indicate contract finalisation is at anadvanced stage.
Source: www.schiebel.net/news/pakistan-navy-selects-camcopter-s-100/”>https://www.schiebel.net/news/pakistan-navy-selects-camcopter-s-100/
