The Unmanned Little Bird H-6U is the unmanned variant of the AH-6i manned scout helicopter. Its unique design combines the autonomous flight capability, networked payloads and communications of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a combat-proven rotorcraft platform. The unmanned system provides over-the-horizon search, re-supply and retrograde, communications relay and surveillance capabilities. All with a low-risk approach, low operational costs and high flight readiness on a proven platform.
A Little, Innovative Bird
Unmanned Little Bird H-6U Technical Specifications
Rotor Diameter | 27.5 ft (8.38 m) | Max Speed | 145 KTAS |
Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,100 m) | Empty Weight | 2,200 lbs (998 kg) manned, 1,900 lbs (862 kg) unmanned |
Useful Payload | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) manned, 1,400 lbs (635 kg) unmanned |
Command Link | Ku-band TCDL |
Electrical Power | 11kW @ 28VDC | Command and Control | STANAG 4586 Compliant |
Endurance | About 6 hours | Mission Planning | Pre-launch and dynamic during mission |
Autonomy | Waypoint control from take-off to landing | Navigation | Fixed (land-based) or relative (sea-based) |
Unmanned Little Bird Gallery
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Quick Facts
- Has 27.5-foot (8.38-meter) main rotor diameter with blade fold capability
- Based on an FAA and military-qualified manned platform
- Can demonstrate compliance to be under CAT I and II MTRC levels
- Capable of flying missions autonomously from takeoff to landing with very high precision and accuracy
- Features an open architecture design that allows U.S.-government-approved design enhancements to be incorporated easily
- Leverages existing logistics, documentation and training of the manned helicopter platform