Milkor, a leading South African defence company showcased its latest unmanned aerial system (UAS), the Milkor 380, at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition that was held at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria from 18 to 22 September 2024 and is Africa’s premier aerospace and defence expo, attracting industry leaders, military officials, and defence enthusiasts from around the globe.
The display of the Milkor 380 UAS at AAD 2024 marks a significant advancement in unmanned aerial technology for both Milkor and the African defence industry. Known for its innovative defence solutions, Milkor has expanded its portfolio to include advanced aerial platforms designed to meet modern warfare and surveillance demands.
Milkor displayed its 380 UAS Unmanned Aerial System at AAD 2024, Defence Exhibition and Airshow that took place in September 2024
The Milkor 380 Unmanned Aerial System is distinguished by its extended endurance and range, boasting an operational duration of over 20 hours and the ability to cover distances exceeding 4 000km and an endurance of 30 hours. This makes it ideal for long-duration missions that require persistent surveillance over vast areas. In addition to its endurance, the aircraft has a high payload capacity, capable of carrying multiple payloads up to 220 kilograms. These payloads include advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence equipment, enhancing its versatility for various mission requirements.
Advanced autonomy is a hallmark of the Milkor 380, featuring capabilities such as autonomous take-off and landing, waypoint navigation, and real-time mission re-tasking. These features reduce the need for constant human intervention and allow for more efficient mission management. The UAS is also equipped with robust communication systems, including secure communication links and satellite communication options, enabling beyond-line-of-sight operations and ensuring reliable data transmission even in challenging environments.
Versatility is at the core of the Milkor 380’s design, making it suitable for a wide array of missions. It excels in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles, as well as border patrol, maritime security, and disaster management operations. Its combination of endurance, payload capacity, autonomy, and communication capabilities positions the Milkor 380 as a formidable asset in modern defence and security strategies.
The Milkor 380 has garnered interest from several international delegations that attended AAD 2024. Representatives from defence ministries and agencies are keen to explore the capabilities of the UAS for incorporation into their national security frameworks.
Milkor’s expansion into the UAS market aligns with its strategic vision to become a global defence technology leader. The company has invested heavily in research and development, focusing on autonomous systems, advanced weaponry, and integrated defence solutions.
Established in 1980, Milkor has a rich history of providing reliable and innovative defence products, including the widely used Milkor Multiple Grenade Launcher. With a focus on quality and technological advancement, Milkor continues to expand its product range to meet the diverse needs of its global clientele.
For further information visit https://milkor.com
