Maiden flight for Neuron
Neuron, the European Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle demonstrator, has successfully completed its first flight at Istres, France. The Neuron technology demonstrator took off from the Dassault test base at Istres, France. Dassault is the prime contractor, teamed with Alenia Aermacchi (Italy); EADS-CASA (Spain); Hellenic Aerospace Industries (Greece); Ruag (Switzerland); Saab (Sweden) and Thales (France). France contributed 50% of the budget.
Mats Palmberg vice president and head of marketing and future products, at Saab’s aeronautics said: “This first flight demonstrates Saab’s ability to develop and produce advanced aeronautics products. The Neuron programme has resulted in experiences that will further enhance Saab’s competiveness with regard to high-tech and cost efficient design and production methods. The knowledge gained is being used in the development of the next-generation Gripen, our civil production and future activities within Unmanned Aerial Systems.”
Alenia Aermacchi chief executive officer Giuseppe Giordo said the first flight was, “An extremely important achievement…the development and demonstration of unmanned aircraft capable of performing complex missions autonomously…are the new frontier of flight.” Alenia is responsible for the electrical and air data systems, low observable components and the smart integrated weapon bay. The Neuron is expected to fly in Sweden in 2014.
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