Article Posted on : - Feb 11, 2014

The United 40 Block 5. Photo: Adcom Systems

MOSCOW (BNS): The flight test of UAE-made high-endurance drone for the Russian military has been postponed, Adcom Systems spokesperson said.

Russia has shown interest in the United 40 Block 5 which made its international debut flight at the MAKS air show last year.

The Russian side has requested a delay in testing from February until a later date, a RIA Novosti report quoting spokesperson Tatyana Kirova said.

The first test drone was to be delivered for evaluation this month, to be followed by a purchase agreement if test flights were successful, the report said.

Adcom Systems United 40 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle designed to carry out near real-time combat assessment, special and reconnaissance operations and communications relays.

The drone powered by twin turboprops can loiter above a single area for over four days. It is capable of carrying almost a half-ton of weapons mounted on hard points under the craft's wings, the Company said.

The Russian armed forces require at least 100 UAVs and 10 guidance and control systems to ensure effective battlefield reconnaissance, according to estimates.