Navy demonstrates Insitu Integrator UAS

The Royal Australian Navy has demonstrated its new Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS), the Insitu Australia RQ-21 Integrator. Operated by 822X Squadron at RANAS Nowra south of Sydney, the Integrator is a fixed-wing UAS with an endurance of up to 16 hours and a maximum speed of more than 90kts.

Capable of carrying a variety of payloads, the Integrator offers Navy a crucial set of eyes and ears in the sky says Defence.

“The realisation of Integrator has progressed from concept to first flight in just six months, an achievement that truly embodies the speed to capability intent, and a reflection of the hard work and commitment of a relatively small group of people across a range of organisations,” said Commander Fleet Air Arm, Commodore Matthew Royals.

Integrator flew the skies of Jervis Bay for 3.1 hours incrementally validating approach profiles, terrain clearances, and communication links, before returning to the airfield for recovery, Defence says. The system entered final approach and the wing of the aircraft successfully caught the Skyhook.

“Being in control of these large uncrewed aircraft is both thrilling and an awesome opportunity, especially given the emerging technology in this space,” said the pilot, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Adams.

Following months of training, preparation and integration, 822X Squadron has officially transitioned to operations with the Integrator and begins a new phase in uncrewed operations in Navy.