Senegal recently purchased several units of the Black Eagle 50H, a hybrid vertical take-off and landing system of unmanned aircraft (VTOL UAS) from Israel’s Stadicopter, as part of its efforts to strengthen its unmanned capabilities and improve its security and defense.
The Black Eagle 50H is the world’s first hybrid powered unmanned helicopter that can perform a variety of missions in law enforcement, maritime, civilian and covert operations. The system has a maximum take-off weight of 50 kg and can carry several large or small payloads, such as cameras, sensors, radars and weapons. The system can fly for up to five hours, which is much longer than other VTOL platforms in its class, and can operate in day or night conditions.
The hybrid engine and propulsion system of the Black Eagle 50H combines the advantages of electric and gasoline power sources, making it economical, simple, light, environmentally friendly and safe. The system can switch between generator and battery power modes, depending on mission requirements and the level of stealth needed. The system also has excellent reliability and suitability for high-altitude flights, thanks to the electric propulsion segment that is less affected by ambient air pressure.
“The Black Eagle 50H is a true multi-domain, multi-task, multi-sensor system, along with all the benefits of a covert, easy-to-maintain, highly versatile electric powered system,” says Noam Lidor, VP of Sales, Marketing and Business Development at Stadicopter . Its ability to carry advanced payloads and its ability to stay in the air for a long time guarantee success and flexibility in the mission.”
Senegal is one of the leading countries in Africa in terms of development and deployment of unmanned systems. The state aims to improve situational awareness, intelligence gathering and operational efficiency in dealing with the complex and developing security threats in the region, such as terrorism, armed warfare, piracy and smuggling. Unmanned systems are becoming a key enabler for African military and security forces in combating these threats, by providing surveillance, intelligence and attack capabilities, while reducing the risk of collateral damage and civilian casualties, and overcoming the challenges of remote and inaccessible areas.
In addition to the Black Eagle 50H, Senegal has also acquired other types of unmanned systems from different countries, such as the Strix 400 from France, the M600WP from Spain, and the YFT-CZ33 from China, to increase its activity and capabilities in a variety of fields and scenarios.