British Army to test BAE Systems-UAVTEK Deliver Stealthy Nano “Bug” Drones

The British Army have received 30 units of nano “Bug” drones developed by BAE Systems and UAVTEK for tests.

The Bug is a nano-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) weighing 196g – similar to the weight of a smartphone – with 40 minute battery life and a 2km range. It boasts a stealthy low visual profile and the ability to fly even in strong winds of more than 50mph.

It will provide the armed forces a video feed beyond line of sight, enhancing situational awareness. Combined with other products, the feed can be shared across land, sea and air.

It was the only nano-UAV able to cope with the uncompromising weather during a recent Army Warfighting Experiment (AWE) event hosted by the Ministry of Defence’s Future Capability Group.

The teams are now working on the next developments on the nano-UAV, exploring sensing equipment and capabilities which could be added, as well as how the Bug could be integrated with other military equipment.