CREX-B
Product descripton: CREX-B by Leonardo S.p.A.
CREX-B is a fixed-wing, electrically powered UAS with endurance of over 70 minutes. It can be hand-launched from enclosed spaces by a single operator, without the need for run-ups. The system can be transported in a back pack and operated by a single operator.
Typical Applications
Typical applications include tactical, close-range over-the-hill surveillance and reconnaissance.
Deployment and Assembly
The aircraft can be assembled in the field without special tools in less than 10 minutes using a simple plug & play assembly system.
Air Vehicle and Payload
The air segment is composed of an electrical single propeller plane.
The air vehicle carries a bottom-placed stabilised interchangeable gimbal camera (D/N or IR/Thermal) which provides real-time monitoring of the ground over which the vehicle is flying and allows lock & track of a target with a loiter manoeuver.
Avionics and Communications
The CREX-B UAV system is based on proprietary technological solutions, including avionics components. This enables a high degree of customisations to satisfy unique customer requirements.
The system utilises Tx/Rx digital communication links with a range of over 10 km Line of Sight (LOS), with Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) and data encryption features. Different frequency ranges are available depending on specific requirements.
Technical specifications
Standard CREX-B Configuration
The standard CREX-B configuration includes:
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Three unmanned, electrical, fixed-wing aerial vehicles, weighing approximately 2 kg, capable of flying in manual, automatic and semi-automatic modes
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Three stabilised payload modules for real-time monitoring:
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Two Colour TV modules
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One Infra Red module
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One man-portable Ground Command and Control Station (GCCS) for controlling the UAS and its payload; the GCCS also receives and archives data and video
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Optional Mission Controller / Observer unit for remote payload and navigation control
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Accessories (carry case, battery chargers, etc.) to allow transportation, maintenance and operation of the system
Features and Capabilities
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Simple, safe and reliable operation
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Single wing design – reduced landing damage
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Lightweight and easy assembly
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Man-portable (weighs less than 2 kg)
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One-man operation
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Hand release launch method
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Short landing capability
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Waypoint navigation
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Auto landing
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Autonomous and semi-autonomous flight modes
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Homing mode
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Pan and tilt stabilised gimbal
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Electrical propulsion for minimal audio signature
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Digital communication links
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Low lifecycle costs
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Built-in video enhancement features:
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Stabilisation
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Visual tracking
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Mosaicing
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Target locking
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Compliant with NATO standards
Air Vehicle
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 1.7 m |
| Fuselage Length | 0.45 m |
| Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) | < 2.1 kg (±5%) |
| Maximum Endurance | Approx. 75 minutes (at MTOW, sea level) |
| Maximum Airspeed | 110 km/h |
| Cruise Airspeed | 36 km/h |
| Maximum Altitude | 3,100 m ASL |
| Operational Altitude | 30–500 m AGL |
| Maximum Rate of Climb | 7.2 km/h |
| Steady State Wind | 46.8 km/h |
| Rain Resistance | 10 mm/hr (MIL-STD-810F, 506.4) |
| Operating Temperature | −20°C to +49°C (MIL-STD-810F, 501.4 & 502.4) |
| Storage Temperature | −20°C to +49°C (MIL-STD-810F, 501.4 & 502.4) |
| Maximum Data Link Range | 10 km LOS |
| Noise Signature | < 65 dB at 50 m |
Payload — Day/Night EO Stabilised Gimbal
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/4-type EXview HAD CCD |
| Resolution | 530 TV lines |
| Minimum Illumination | 1.0 lx (typical) (F1.8, 50 IRE) |
| Optical Zoom | 10× |
| Horizontal Field of View | 4.6° – 46° |
| Movement | Pan and tilt |
Payload — Infrared (IR) Stabilised Gimbal
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor | Uncooled VOx microbolometer |
| Resolution | 320 × 240 |
| Frame Rate | 60 Hz |
| Zoom | 2× digital |
| Field of View | 40° × 30° |
| Movement | Pan and tilt |
| IR Illuminator | IR class, eye-safe |
Communications & Data Links
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Radio Link Range | 10 km LOS |
| Data Link | Uplink / downlink, 4 hopping patterns |
| Video Link | Downlink, 4 selectable channels |