# More details on Aerodata and Milkor advanced MALE UAS emerges

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2023/11/aerodata-and-milkor-collaborate-to-introduce-advanced-male-uas-for-maritime-surveillance/
- Published: 2023-11-09T07:41:37+01:00
- Author: Sarah Lesedi

Aerodata AG, a German specialist in mission systems and special mission conversion,
and South Africa’s Milkor are joining forces to introduce a Medium Altitude Long
Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) tailored for maritime surveillance.
This collaborative effort builds upon a [recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)](https://www.military.africa/2023/06/milkor-and-aerodata-teams-up-for-uav-maritime-surveillance-solution/).

The partnership between Aerodata and Milkor centers on integrating Aerodata’s advanced
mission system and airborne sensor technology into an advanced state-of-the-art 
unmanned airborne system. By combining their expertise, the two companies are facilitating
the transition from manned to unmanned platforms, enhancing maritime surveillance
capabilities.

One of the distinguishing features of this new UAS is its remarkable adaptability.
Beyond its MALE capabilities, which include a service ceiling of 30,000 feet, it
seamlessly operates in the LALE (Low Altitude Low Endurance) segment, effectively
covering altitudes below 10,000 feet—a critical capability for typical maritime 
surveillance missions. Additionally, the UAS boasts an impressive endurance of up
to 35 hours, ensuring extended mission coverage and increased operational efficiency.

With a Maximum Take-Off Weight of 1,300 kg and the ability to carry mission-specific
payloads, this UAS holds the potential to enhance the surveillance aircraft fleets
of customers worldwide. It’s worth noting that Aerodata’s contribution includes 
state-of-the-art mission system technology, further enhanced by maritime surveillance
sensors from its subsidiary, Optimare Systems GmbH. This integrated approach from
a single source ensures optimal performance and support.

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Through their strategic partnership, Aerodata and Milkor are well-positioned to 
provide cutting-edge solutions for maritime surveillance, catering to the evolving
needs of defense and security agencies. The integration of Aerodata’s mission system
with Milkor’s expertise will empower the unmanned system to gather crucial data,
monitor maritime activities, and effectively identify potential threats.

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As maritime security concerns continue to grow worldwide, this collaborative effort
represents a significant step forward in bolstering surveillance capabilities and
strengthening the defense and security sectors. The advanced UAS is poised to play
a crucial role in safeguarding coastal regions and monitoring maritime activities,
offering enhanced capabilities and operational efficiency for agencies tasked with
maritime surveillance.

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