BAE Systems has successfully tested the TRV-150 drone as a multi-role offensive and defensive asset

BAE Systems has tested the TRV-150 drone, a strike variant of the Malloy T-150 quadcopter capable of destroying air and ground targets.

Here's What We Know

During the test, the UAV successfully engaged an aerial target - another drone - by firing an APKWS 70mm laser-guided missile. This was the first time APKWS was used on a multifunctional quadcopter with a strike mode.

The main "feature" of the new product is its versatility. The strike weapon module can be easily removed in an hour, turning the TRV-150 back into a cargo delivery or reconnaissance drone. The same drones are already being used by the US Navy and the UK Royal Navy.

"While originally designed as a tactical edge logistics drone, adding strike packages to different variants of the TRV is a natural extension that leverages an already-fielded UAS as a multi-role offensive and defensive asset. Providing medium UAS-delivered air and ground target strike capability will be a force-multiplying game changer and we are excited to play a role in bringing this new capability to our US and allied-nation warfighters.".

With the world becoming saturated with kamikaze drones - with Ukraine and Iran as examples - the TRV-150 strike TRV-150 offers a cheaper alternative to complex and expensive systems. UAVs with APKWS solve air-to-air and air-to-ground missions for tens of thousands of dollars instead of hundreds.

BAE has already started localised production of all key drone components, including electric motors - all in the UK, not China. This is how counter-drone defence becomes affordable, mobile and responsive.

As a result, BAE is offering not just another drone, but a versatile vehicle: put a missile on - you get a strike platform, take it off - you have a cargo transport or scout. According to Anthony Gregory, director of FalconWorks business development at BAE Systems, it will be a "game changer" technology for forward defence.

Source: BAE Systems