Edge Group company from UAE, known for attempt to buy Ukrainian drone and missile manufacturer Fire Point, showed flights of its new JERNAS-M UAV. Interesting nuance is it appears built based on light civilian aircraft.
On video published on company social media, one can see takeoff and landing of drone, which has canard aerodynamic scheme. Accompanying notice states drone provides effective surveillance and target tracking and acts as economical solution for modern air defense needs.
Read more: Turkiye Sells Ukraine Its Entire Remaining M270 Launcher Stock Plus 70 ATACMS, 47,000 Cluster Shells, Deliveries Could Start This Year
Manufacturer website notes capability to install up to 280 kg payload, including electro-optical location station, radar and electronic intelligence assets. Also weapons can be suspended, like 110 kg MK81 bombs or RASH 3 guided munitions.
Regarding other characteristics, JERNAS-M has maximum takeoff mass of 1,200 kg with empty of 590 kg. It can remain airborne up to 12 hours at full load, or up to 20 hours in surveillance and detection configuration. Cruise speed declared 240 km/h with 4-cylinder EP918Ti engine of 185 hp. Wingspan is 10 m.
Defense Express notes that on video and images, elements of manned aircraft are well visible on UAV. Meaning for development, ready serial aircraft was taken as basis.
By appearance and dimensions one can assume this involves Velocity XL, supplied in form of kits which buyer can assemble independently. By characteristics such aircraft has maximum takeoff mass of approximately 1,200-1,400 kg and cruise speed of 380-460 km/h depending on modification and installed engine.
Using already available proven aircraft enables accelerating and cheapening development, as no need to create aircraft from scratch. Also this may reduce production costs, as one can take already ready used aircraft, purchase assembly kits, or acquire license to manufacture them independently. Which of these variants is true is currently unknown.
Recall Ukraine's Defense Forces convert light aircraft like A-22 or Skyranger into strike UAVs. At same time they perform both kamikaze role and reusable bombers, like Horynych.
Regarding JERNAS-M use within air defense system, here one can assume that for performing such tasks, installation of EOS, radar, or electronic intelligence assets will suit. Thus flying surveillance platform will be obtained, which will provide information necessary for sky protection.
Recall Edge Group is defense conglomerate from UAE, among whose products one can find UAVs, UGVs, naval drones, ammunition, armored vehicles, EW assets and more. At same time it actively continues expanding its portfolio, both concluding cooperation agreements with other industry giants and buying smaller companies.
For example, this year it became known Edge Group acquired Brazilian Grupo Akaer, known specifically as manufacturer of EE-9 Cascavel wheeled tanks. In Ukraine it is known through its attempt to buy missile and drone manufacturer Fire Point.
Read more: Australia Becomes First Export Customer for Secretive AIM-260 JATM Missile Replacing AMRAAM, But Delivery Waits Until 2033 and Range May Trail China's
