General Atomics has tested a new Due Regard Radar (DRR) radar for the Predator, which allows the UAS to operate near other aircraft without collidiing. Flight tests of the pre-production radar verified functionality aboard a Predator B, plus integration with the Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) II with Resolution Advisories, which many commercial aircraft use to avoid accidents.
"The collision avoidance maneuvers were automatically and successfully executed onboard Predator B to verify system functionality and validate hardware-in-the-loop simulations," General Atomics said.
"DRR will allow users to operate Predator B independently in international airspace without the need for land-based, sea-based, or off-board airborne airspace surveillance, offering our customers greater freedom of movement around the globe," said Frank Pace, president of aircraft systems at General Atomics.
