Royal Navy’s Ice Patrol Ship HMS Protector has been assigned two small rotary-wing drones, specially adapted for her unique mission in the polar extremes. Although the Devonport-based survey ship has a large flight deck, with no hangar she cannot take helicopters with her – unlike her predecessor HMS Endurance, which carried two Lynx.
26 May 2021
Drones will soar over the frozen wastes of Antarctica – and help guide the Navy’s sole polar research ship safely through packs of ice.
HMS Protector has been assigned two small rotary wing drones, specially adapted for her unique mission in the polar extremes.
Although the Devonport-based survey ship has a large flight deck, with no hangar she cannot take helicopters with her – unlike her predecessor HMS Endurance, which carried two Lynx.
The two small Sky Mantis Remotely-Piloted Aerial Vehicles from Surrey firm Evolve Dynamics have been given the same numbers as the (long-retired) Lynxes 434 and 435.
They can operate in sub-zero temperatures for up to an hour at a time, sending high-definition video (including 30x zoom and infrared imaging) back to their operators – all members of Protector’s 48-strong ship’s company.
HMS Protector to test two drones to scout for ice leads 25 May 2021 (Last Updated May 25th, 2021 17:29)
Royal Navy’s HMS Protector will test two small rotary wing drones to scout for ice leads.
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HMS Protector during a deployment to Antarctica. Credit: LPhot Nicky Wilson.
The Royal Navy’s ice patrol ship HMS Protector is set to test two small rotary wing drones for the critical task of scouting for ice leads.
Developed by UK-based Evolve Dynamics, the two Sky Mantis Remotely-Piloted Aerial Vehicles have been assigned the same numbers as the (long-retired) Lynxes 434 and 435.
Soaring over the frozen wastes of Antarctica, the drones will help guide the polar research vessel safely through packs of ice.