Blogs

http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/04/01/340168/pictures-farnborough-beckons-for-italian-uav-display-team.html

While the Boeing 787 and747-8 appear set to be the commercial showpiece of July’s Farnborough Air Show, military eyes are likely to be drawn to the Italian unmanned formation display team intending to debut at this year’s event.

Farnborough 2010 organisers have yet to give final authorisation for the Foggia-based ‘Squadriglia Tranquilla’ (‘Quiet Squadron’) to participate, but Flightglobalunderstands that approval is likely to be granted this month.

The nine Alenia Aeronautica Sky-X UAVs have been heavily modified, mainly to reduce fuel and maintenance costs. All of the expensive surveillance equipment used during military operations has been removed, leaving relatively simple pre-programmed on-board guidance. Each Sky-X has also been fitted with a smoke canister.

I will be at Farnborough so will enjoy watching that from the beer tent.