9-11 APRIL 2019 | CHANGI EXHIBITION CENTRE,

DAILY NEWS Day Three 11 April 2019

HIGHLIGHTS Exhibition 10:00am-5:30pm Close to 100 participating companies from 23 countries gather to showcase a vast spectrum of cutting-edge and innovative solutions in rotorcraft and unmanned technologies.

Future of Urban Mobility Showcase Photo: author Head over to the Future of Urban Mobility Showcase to check out the latest eVTOL Singapore to have world’s developments by Volocopter, UAM and Lockheed first urban air taxi service? Martin. Volocopter provided further details tourists visit annually. These figures that each two-seat multicopter can about its ambitions for Singapore suggest there could be demand for an carry only one passenger. Later, the What’s Next on Rotorcraft Asia 2019’s opening air taxi service. pilot will be taken out and the service day. Indeed, the establishment of a Reuter explained that Singapore is will become truly autonomous. Start-Up Showcase viable commercial air taxi network an ideal location to pioneer a service Future routes would use the CBD as Meet the next generation of in the city-state is the company’s in Asia, as the city has an efficient and a hub, with potential destinations innovators powering the way highest priority. collaborative government, an excellent being Batam, Changi, Jurong, Seletar, forward, as the brightest A third-generation example of partner network, and 4,200 regional Sentosa and Tuas. The aim is to start-ups pitch showcase a Volocopter will be shipped to businesses have headquarters here. seamlessly connect air taxi services solutions for the future of Singapore ‘within weeks’ ahead of Tan Chun Wei, deputy director of with existing transport nodes. vertical lift. trials somewhere in the south of the transformation programmes at the Soo Soon Teong of ST Engineering island, scheduled for Q3 of this year. Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore said his company, the world’s second- Thereafter, public flight tests are (CAAS), admitted many challenges largest MRO provider, is cooperating expected to occur by year’s end. exist, such as safety and noise. with Volocopter. ST Engineering The Rotorcraft Asia Show Daily is Florian Reuter, CEO of Volocopter, The CAAS is in the process of shaping could help maintain any future published by Shephard Media in said Singapore ‘has all the elements policies and regulations, and collecting Volocopter fleet too. association with Experia Events. needed for urban air mobility’. and sharing data with entities such And the cost? Reuter believes in the Printed by Xpress Print, Singapore. Cooperation with Singapore was as EASA. long run it will be similar to a regular © Shephard Media 2019 officially announced last October, Issues such as deconflicting taxi. Initially, however, the service will Editor: Helen Haxell Reporting by: Gordon Arthur, and the company opened an office airspace, and establishing digital be more expensive. Richard Thomas here in January 2019. ‘We intend and physical infrastructure, also need While the idea of being able to hail Production: David Hurst, to work together to provide the to be resolved. an air taxi via a smartphone app is Sirli Manitski first commercial service,’ Reuter The Initial flights will take place with appealing for some, there are emphasised. certified pilots at the controls. While numerous naysayers who question Singapore taxis provide one this enhances safety, or at least the whether such a service is viable. million rides per day, and 17.4 million public perception of it, it does mean By Gordon Arthur

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 1 10/04/2019 17:14:36 WE DELIVER on what you value the most. For over a century, customers have relied on StandardAero to provide best-in-class rotary wing support with excellent operational efficiency and innovative custom MRO solutions. We’ve significantly expanded our industry-leading helicopter support capabilities to include new turboshaft engines and new airframes on civil & military rotary wing aircraft – capabilities that are backed by certified technicians www.standardaero.com/heli and experienced aerospace professionals who have a passion for delivering award- [email protected] winning customer service. Contact us today to learn how we can support you! +1.204.318.7544

Engines • GE T700/CT7 • Pratt & Whitney PT6T Dynamic Components • Rolls-Royce M250 & RR300 • Safran Arriel 1 & 2 Fuel Systems

Airframes Avionics • Airbus AS350/EC130 series & AS332/H225 Super Puma STCs • Bell 204/205, 206, 212/412, 222, 230, Visit us at 407, 427 & 430 Rotorcraft Asia Exhibit #L12

RCA-19_day_3.indd 2 10/04/2019 17:14:36 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS Bucher to the rescue

STAND J18 of HEMS services in places like China, as a helicopter needs a complete Photo: Bucher Bucher is excited about the ecosystem of support from hospitals, possibilities that the Chinese market aviation regulators, insurance presents for the emergency medical companies and emergency networks, systems that it installs in Airbus for instance. Helicopters platforms. Bucher’s major market is Europe, EMS is starting to take off in China, but it believes Asia has the greatest and Rolf Kraus, director of sales and potential for growth. However, for places programmes at Bucher, told the like China there are type certificates and Rotorcraft Asia Show Daily that seven supplemental type certificates that need H135 helicopters outfitted with its to be obtained, and this can be a medical equipment have been lengthy process. China has certified delivered to a Qingdao-based Bucher’s H135 medical equipment, consortium to date. but the process for the H145 has not With 100 aircraft under contract via yet begun. All of Bucher’s equipment is modular, loading/unloading patients. While a a 2016 framework agreement, this Bucher has deliberately focused on allowing helicopters to be rapidly single stretcher is the most common exemplifies the scale of opportunities supplying medical interiors for only reconfigured within minutes for configuration aboard EMS helicopters, that exist in the Chinese market. The Airbus platforms, with the European mountain rescue, hospital transfer or both the H135 and H145 can carry up first HEMS aircraft was handed over OEM being seen as the market leader primary rescue missions, for example. to two patients. There is also a roof- last September. in the HEMS field. Bucher offers The Swiss company highlights that its mounted rail system to which a With China setting up a final equipment for both the H135 and H145 equipment is lightweight, integrated, ventilator can be attached. assembly facility for 95 of these aircraft. customised, efficient and safe. Bucher can fit emergency equipment H135s, Bucher will install its medical Currently the latter model is slightly Bucher makes all the installations, aboard helicopters either directly on the equipment directly onto these more popular as an air ambulance including roll-in modular stretchers and Airbus production line, or it can go to a helicopters on that Qingdao line. platform since it offers more space and even a side-loading stretcher. The roll-in client’s facility anywhere in the world to Kraus noted that government flexibility, although in Asia it is the H135 stretcher means that medical personnel retrofit equipment. backing is critical for the creation that is more common. do not need to strain themselves By Gordon Arthur

Helicopter ops aid fight on world hunger necessities. Wasim Samara, Currently, Madagascar has five UAE regional aviation safety officer at aircraft to deliver palleted shipments. WE DELIVER on what you value the most. For over a century, the WFP, told the Rotorcraft Asia More than 56% of operations by customers have relied on StandardAero to provide best-in-class rotary wing Show Daily: ‘We are here in the the WFP use UN agencies. When support with excellent operational efficiency and innovative custom MRO region to present at the show the undertaking missions, the UN solutions. We’ve significantly expanded our industry-leading helicopter support noble cause of saving lives and to Department of Security and Safety capabilities to include new turboshaft engines and new airframes on civil & work with operators.’ and the UN Refugee Agency can be Rotary-wing aircraft were called on. These operate aircraft for military rotary wing aircraft – capabilities that are backed by certified technicians www.standardaero.com/heli introduced into the fleet in combating hunger and offering and experienced aerospace professionals who have a passion for delivering award- [email protected] 2008. According to WFP aviation humanitarian assistance where winning customer service. Contact us today to learn how we can support you! +1.204.318.7544 literature, the organisation needed throughout the globe. ‘offers long-term aircraft charters Samara said: ‘The government of to support NGO and UN agencies’ an affected country must first ask for Engines interventions’. help, then the World Food • GE T700/CT7 The Mil Mi-8 medium twin-engine Programme mobilises.’ • Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T Dynamic Components Photo: US DoD rotorcraft is just one of the aircraft Well within a week, the • Rolls-Royce M250 & RR300 widely used for relief flights. organisation can set to work, but • Safran Arriel 1 & 2 Fuel Systems STAND P16 to highlight its work and connect Within the past year, the in 24h the WFP aims to be on the with exhibitors. Humanitarian Air Service transported ground to understand what logistics Airframes Avionics With more than 90 aircraft The WFP is a part of the UN and more than 327,000 passengers and are needed. Helicopters help it • Airbus AS350/EC130 series & flying on its global operations, the one specific area it manages is the undertook well over 3,000 airdrops achieve its mission by reaching areas AS332/H225 Super Puma STCs Visit us at World Food Programme (WFP) is Humanitarian Air Service, active in over remote and trouble-stricken that fixed-wing aircraft cannot. • Bell 204/205, 206, 212/412, 222, 230, present at Rotorcraft Asia 2019 the delivery of food and other locations worldwide. By Helen Haxell 407, 427 & 430 Rotorcraft Asia Exhibit #L12

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 3 10/04/2019 17:14:37 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS PhilJets trains and gains

With an ever-growing stable of pilot shortage and PhilJets’ fleet is rotary- and fixed-wing platforms, diverse and extensive, Tea sees both -based aviation charter strength and challenges in the drive to company PhilJets is facing the capture talent. challenges of pilot shortages and a ‘We are lucky that the reservoir diverse fleet on its own terms as it of young and talented pilots in the expands its business across Philippines is growing,’ he said. Asia-Pacific. ‘However, in our new base in Since the last iteration of it is more challenging. It Rotorcraft Asia two years ago, is not easy and definitely one of our PhilJets has experienced a fleet growth strongest challenges.’ of more than 66%. In 2017, the company, which Uniform strategy specialises in business travel and Despite this situation, PhilJets has Photos: PhilJets tourism, had a helicopter fleet developed its own strategy to deal with composition of four H130s, one EC130 the problem and is adopting a uniform ‘We are now ready to step up and Whilst the H145 T2 has represented B4 and an AS350 B2. approach to training, whether in the reach the next phase. We have signed the heavier end of the helicopter Now it stands at ten rotorcraft, Philippines or Cambodia. with an OEM and are in the final phase capability in the fleet for the last growing by four platforms, and on the ‘We have developed our before the official launch as an two years, Tea said consideration was fixed-wing side the fleet has doubled to safety, quality and training team authorised service centre, with several being given to the Bell 429 as a four, comprising two Cessna Citation in order to keep our pilots and more partnerships on the way,’ he possible acquisition. XLS+, one Bombardier Challenger 350 technicians current on their ratings. explained. and a Beechcraft King Air 350. Safety is our priority. This is the This mixed bag of aircraft with New sites? Helicopters are still predominantly reason why we developed our internal varying requirements for operation, The company is not just focussed from Airbus, with seven H130s, training programme.’ maintenance and servicing does not on the expansion of its fleet, Tea is one EC130 B4, a Bell 407 GXP and He continued: ‘So far, we keep on seem to faze the ambitious MD as he exploring, in earnest, other key sites one H145. building stronger relationship with the already has his sights firmly set on within the Asia-Pacific region. When the Rotorcraft Asia Show training entities. We are looking for future acquisitions to grow the business PhilJets is the process of opening a Daily spoke with Thierry Tea, founder more options and choices.’ more by 2022. new base in Cambodia with operations and MD of PhilJets, back in April 2017 But it is not just about pilots. There is ‘We now have 14 aircraft and will currently being set up, and Tea he was confident the fleet would grow also the question of maintenance and reach 20 aircraft within the year with commented that the operator is ‘starting well into double figures on both fronts repair, with the need for a wealth of the order for three Bell 505s, one R44 an aviation training group.’ Laos and in the near future. This year should spare parts for different models. and one AW109, and will have a Myanmar remain focal points of interest confirm this forecast as the company Tea shared: ‘PhilJets has developed Citation Latitude under management. for the company as well, Tea stated. looks to diversify with different its own capabilities [over] the last six We are aiming to grow the fleet to 30 On his ambitions for PhilJets, Tea platforms from multiple OEMs. One years. Our team is experienced on the aircraft in three years. said of the company strategy: ‘We have major deal was secured in March aircraft types that we operate.’ ‘Our objective is to operate applied the jet model to the helicopter 2019, for example. It seems the operator is 20 helicopters and ten fixed-wing. market, successfully growing our The six-year-old company signed for pushing forward with its plans This means we want to double in [aircraft] management activity.’ three Bell 505 Jet Ranger Xs. At the for ground support. Tea was able to size in the next three years in line This business model has prepared handover ceremony, Tea indicated that reveal some details to the Rotorcraft with our expansion plan,’ Tea for and managed the company’s this purchase could be indicative of Asia Show Daily. confirmed. incremental growth, aircraft by aircraft. more Bell platforms being added in ‘Now, we are starting to purchase due course. aircraft, that we fully own, and we will This light single-engine aircraft is build our asset portfolio as we look to also going to be joined in the same strengthen our balance sheet. It is a weight category by the Robinson R44, new phase for PhilJets. We have started and another new manufacturer being our next five-year phase,’ Tea said. welcomed to the charter fleet is Looking to the role of the company in Leonardo in the shape of a single Asia-Pacific and beyond, he concluded: AW109. A Citation Latitude is also ‘The objective is to become a true joining the fixed-wing side. regional player with an international Tea told the Rotorcraft Asia Show standard within this period [2024 and Daily further: ‘We will be looking at beyond]. We are in it for the long term five to six more per year for the next and we now have enough experience two years.’ and expertise, a solid team and the Bearing in mind that the civil rotary- resources to achieve these goals.’ wing industry is experiencing a global By Helen Haxell

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 4 10/04/2019 17:14:40 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS Luminator breaks light barrier

STAND K11 EMS, which, according to the Luminator representative, had ‘latched onto’ the Photo: author US-based aviation searchlight system’s capability. manufacturer Luminator Aerospace Sales of the LS-400 are under way, said it had ‘broken the glass ceiling’ with more than 100 units delivered for of LED technology with its LS-400 installation on Airbus helicopters in system, which is showcased for the the US, Canada and Europe, while a first time in the Asia-Pacific region smaller number had been delivered to at Rotorcraft Asia 2019. an unnamed Asia-Pacific customer. According to a company official the The latter region itself has system brings increased luminosity ‘tremendous’ growth potential, and longevity compared to traditional according to the official, particularly in bulb – otherwise known as countries such as China and Japan. incandescent – technology. Development of the system took ‘The key thing is that we have place in about a year, with a test broken down the barriers in the process running over six months. performance limits; you had a glass At peak intensity, the LS-400 The light completes a 360° rotation visible and IR), with an IR beam ceiling before,’ the official told the produces over 500,000CD, although in 15s, with its new LED head providing spread of 9-10°. When operating in Rotorcraft Asia Show Daily. Luminator officials said that its a longer lamp life and low power white light, the beam spread is ‘Now we are exceeding the candle technology has the capability to consumption. In addition, it is expected between 18-19°. power of the incandescent lights by go beyond this point. Factors such that it will outlast the service life of the The LS-400’s operational two and three times, while power as the average age of pilots and airframe on which it is installed. At temperature range extends from consumption is down 50%.’ environmental, climatic and light 20,000h, it has two or three times the -40°C to +70°C. It is able to be Applications for the LS-400 across conditions were all taken into average lifespan of rotary platforms. operated extended at speeds of up to the military and civil aviation sector account in the development of the Additional features include a 120kt, or 180kt when stationary. include SAR, offshore oil and gas and system. single or dual mode function (white/ By Richard Thomas

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 5 10/04/2019 17:14:42 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS One Bell of a ride

Bell has set a mid-2020s timeframe for Nexus to be commercially available. (All photos: Bell)

With its hybrid electric air taxi Nexus continuing to receive international The aircraft also hosts an energy storage battery, which plaudits, Bell is looking upon the dense cities of Asia-Pacific as potential provides a ‘means of redundant settings fit for market integration of the vehicle.By Tim Martin power’ that can be used in the event of an in-flight engine As overly populated cities In the meantime, airframers named Nexus. Aesthetically, the shutdown to land safely. throughout the Asia-Pacific have set themselves the Nexus’ ducts are unmistakable, Energy storage manufacturer region continue to face challenge of delivering platforms with two sitting at the front of the Electric Power Systems has been increased congestion, industry is that will quickly gain public vehicle, two aft and two placed supporting Bell in designing the determined to provide urban air acceptance and produce reliable, on the wing tips. The design is battery package, including the mobility solutions to relieve environmentally friendly far from resembling a traditional selection and development of the pressure by developing hybrid capabilities, designed to support helicopter. lithium-ion-based cell used. electric and electric VTOL a range of markets, including oil Central to the concept is The cells are integrated into a (eVTOL) aircraft. and gas, SAR and VIP. a sophisticated propulsion pack that contains a battery There is also a consensus configuration, with each of the management system capable of Futuristic solutions that these new aircraft will not ducts hosting an electric motor, monitoring each to ensure that On the surface, it is an appealing exclusively be for high-end powered by a DC electrical they are performing safely and business case where service customers, but will be offered distribution system. ‘A combination accurately, Heironimus said. users would eventually be given as more affordable solutions of the vehicle layout, plus a goal ‘Individual battery packs are the option of taking a piloted or compared to helicopter charter to achieve our safety metrics, has able to talk to the propulsion autonomous flight, avoiding services, for example. driven that distributed choice,’ control, explain what they are gridlocked roads and saving Those leading the air taxi Kyle Heironimus, propulsion lead able to do, and what performance valuable time in the process. charge include US-based OEM for Nexus at Bell, explained. they are able to provide, and also In order to shape a smooth Bell, which has been championing ‘In addition to generating the understand what performance transition to this new era of new developments in propulsion DC electricity through the turbo the propulsion system needs from flight, the pace at which industry, technologies and anti-torque generator we also have a them – it’s a smart and integrated regulatory agencies, aviation concepts since the 2017 launch high-power energy storage system,’ he explained. authorities and other major of its FCX-001 demonstrator. system, essentially a battery stakeholders collaborate and Now retired, FCX-001 was system, that provides a means of Setting goals overcome pressing issues followed by an air taxi cabin redundant and dissimilar power A target of the mid-2020s has surrounding safety and mock-up in 2018, and as of to the overall propulsion system. been set for commercial market operational planning is expected January 2019, a full-scale, six- That’s integrated through the entry of the vehicle, whilst an to dominate proceedings. tilted-duct, hybrid electric aircraft distribution system,’ he added. airframe manufacturer is yet to be

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 6 10/04/2019 17:14:46 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS

decided upon and could see an OEM other than Bell selected in the future. Supply chain partners already signed up to the Nexus programme include Safran, which is responsible for the aircraft’s hybrid propulsion and drive system, and Thales, lined up to provide flight control computer hardware and software. Additionally, Moog will manufacture flight control actuators, while delivering avionics and vehicle management computers falls to Garmin. Interestingly, Bell previously explored concepts with open rotors, ducted rotors and various Nexus features six tilted fan ducts power/lift configurations, such as each with an electric motor. tiltrotor and tilt-wing options, explained Scott Drennan, VP of innovation at the company. 2017, following a letter of intent years to figure out how all of this it is predicting that similar totals Setting the technical aspects of with Bell in 2016 for 30 Jet can work and make sure that from both 2017 and 2018 will be the Nexus programme aside – and Ranger X helicopters. they’re invited [to collaborative accounted for in 2019. ‘We did a before any plans of it entering In terms of how Asia-Pacific and industry events].’ great job last year [with our the Asia-Pacific market are set in develops its own course of action orders], I think we outsold all of stone – Bell is primarily interested for introducing urban air mobility, Challenges ahead the competition, and of course in continuing to provide helicopter however, Sale anticipates that one Unpicking some of the major areas it’s a goal to do the same thing operators with opportunities to offer of the main challenges will stem facing regulators, in terms of future again this year, but [looking at] customers commercial intra-city from the broad collection of civil certification of hybrid and eVTOL the market itself, I don’t think and city-to-city flights. aviation regulators as the region – aircraft, it is clear that several it has recovered fully from the ‘There are already companies unlike Europe or the US by factors will take priority, ranging downturn, but it’s starting to turn who are using manned aircraft on comparison – is not covered by a from flight envelopes, performance in the right direction,’ Sale said. the ground, typically the [Bell] 505 single authority. requirements and take-off The parapublic market is of [Jet Ranger X] in Jakarta, with ‘Every single country has its own standards to climb, landing, particular significance to Bell’s Whitesky Aviation, who is already regulatory agency. Each will have to vibration and operating limitations, business aspirations: ‘That’s really providing a service to and from do it their own way. I think what while system redundancy where our big numbers came from various cities to helipads and we’re doing [as a company] is trying capabilities will also need to be in 2018.’ Sale suggested that the hotels,’ said David Sale, Asia- to work not just with the FAA, but defined as a critical standard 412 twin utility and 429 light twin Pacific MD at Bell. ‘When you start any agency we can, including negating aircraft malfunctions. helicopters will both continue to see that [taking place] with agencies here, but also cities and Additionally, a pilot shortage to play a major role in countries dense populations here, I think city planners,’ he explained. throughout the rotorcraft industry such as Indonesia, Thailand and you’re definitely going to see a ‘So, I don’t think there’s a clear does not bode well for the air taxi New Zealand. movement toward urban [air] and concise answer other than revolution, especially as hundreds On lighter aircraft prospects, mobility.’ Whitesky’s air taxi working as best we can with the if not thousands of the aircraft Bell continues to put its service was initially launched in regulators over the next couple of are being touted as reasonable weight behind increasing the estimates for future numbers international market share and internationally. presence of its 505 Jet Ranger X. In the meantime, Bell is set Assessing how that fits within an to concentrate on building its Asia-Pacific context, Sale firmly sizeable civil helicopter portfolio suggested that the helicopter’s throughout Asia, despite Sale suitability for tourism operations mentioning that he is not will be of value to potential expecting ‘huge growth’ from customers. the region this year. However, ‘I think the 505 will do well in he does foresee opportunities New Zealand,’ he said. ‘It could from a select collection of play [a prominent role] in places countries, including Indonesia, like Cambodia or China where Thailand and the Philippines. tourists are moving south to New Without the company being Zealand. That [type of operation] Bell’s hybrid-electric air taxi Nexus could one day stave off able to offer a figure for orders is growing, and Thailand is part of congestion issues across densely populated Asian cities. across the whole area last year, that too,’ he concluded. ■

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 7 10/04/2019 17:14:50 DAY THREE ROTORCRAFT ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS

Rotorcraft Asia & Unmanned Systems Asia 2019 Thursday, 11th April 2019

TECHNOLOGY SEMINARS (COMPLIMENTARY) Tech Theatre Learn about the design and technological considerations behind some of the most innovative unmanned systems solutions at these complimentary sessions. 11:30am-12:00pm Norwegian Technology to Improve Emergency Preparedness By Robot Aviation AS

1:00pm-1:30pm Artificial Intelligence Diagnostic Dilemma By Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Asia Ltd

2:00pm-2:30pm Intelligent Search and Rescue By Drone Solution Services Pte Ltd

2:30pm-3:00pm UAV Industry Application By Beijing TT Aviation Technology Co Ltd

LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS Demo Zone Uncover the real capabilities of the UAVs and UGVs on showcase! Catch the unmanned systems in action at the Demo Zone. 10:00am-10:30am EM Services Pte Ltd

11:00am-11:30am MIRS Innovate Pte Ltd

12:00pm-12:30pm Doog International Pte Ltd

1:00pm-1:30pm ACE Aviation Pte Ltd

1:30pm-2:00pm EM Services Pte Ltd

2:30pm-3:00pm Singapore Institute of Technology – University of Glasgow (SIT – UGS)

3:30pm-4:00pm MIRS Innovate Pte Ltd

4:30pm-5:00pm Singapore Institute of Technology – University of Glasgow (SIT – UGS)

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RCA-19_day_3.indd 8 10/04/2019 17:14:51 9-11 APRIL 2019 | CHANGI EXHIBITION CENTRE, SINGAPORE

DAILY NEWS Day Three 11 April 2019

HIGHLIGHTS Exhibition 10:00am-5:30pm

Close to 100 participating companies from 23 countries gather to showcase a vast spectrum of cutting-edge and innovative solutions in Photo: rotorcraft and unmanned Experia Events technologies.

Technology Seminars First session: 11:30am Last session: 3:30pm

Photo: Gordon Arthur Learn about some of the most innovative unmanned systems solutions at these Conference calls for drone harmony complimentary seminar In a passionate keynote address, systems should be the enabling drones, regardless of mass, including sessions scheduled through the director general for mobility of technologies and to create an those under 150kg. the day. and transport at the European environment which fully exploits ‘This new legal framework allows Commission, Henrik Hololei (inset the potential of drones. the EU to come up with a coherent above), told delegates at the ‘In order to achieve this, we need drone policy, which is also covering the Live Unmanned Systems Asia 2019 a holistic approach, meaning that we most dynamic part of the market, Conference that the industry needs have to address all the aspects smaller drones. Secondly, the EU is Demonstrations to take a holistic approach in the [drones] touch upon, from safety to introducing rules that reflect the 10:00am-5:00pm utilisation and operation of drones. security, from privacy to public so-called “operation-centric approach” Hololei heralded the free trade and acceptance, from technology to where the burden of the rules is no Catch the unmanned aerial investment protection agreement integration into the airspace.’ longer proportionate with the mass of and ground vehicles in action signed between the EU and Singapore He related further that it is the aircraft but is proportionate to the at the Demo Zone. in October 2018 as an example of a anticipated that by 2022 the global risks of operation,’ Hololei said. ‘deepening relationship’. number of drones is projected to In closing his address, he stressed The agreement demonstrates reach 45 million units, hence the the collaborative dialogue Europe can The Rotorcraft Asia Show Daily is ‘a unique innovative spirit and is a need for worldwide rules on their provide with Singapore and beyond, as published by Shephard Media in great basis for new industries to take usage and operation. the EU exercises and facilitates its association with Experia Events. Printed by Xpress Print, Singapore. off’ from within Singapore. Hololei explained that since current frameworks and learns as © Shephard Media 2019 He continued: ‘I am also sure this 2015, drones have become an these are put into practice. Editor: Helen Haxell future partnership will inspire us to integral part of Europe’s aviation ‘We are committed to sharing Reporting by: Gordon Arthur, cooperate even more closely in the strategy, particularly in the context of information, best practices and Richard Thomas area of unmanned systems.’ innovation, decarbonisation and working towards a harmonised Production: David Hurst, Speaking of the practices and digitalisation. approach. I assure you that Europe is Sirli Manitski frameworks administered within the He went on to say that from there to work together with you and European region, Hololei commented September 2018, new safety rules [we are] ready to share our solutions.’ that the wider objective for unmanned now enable the EU to regulate all By Helen Haxell

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DAY THREE UNMANNED SYSTEMS ASIA 2019 DAILY NEWS

The urban environment has lagged behind in the integration of unmanned systems, unlike industries (often Urban mobility urged remote) such as mining, agriculture and energy. One of the key technologies that will be required to transform to avert ‘dire’ straits promise will be the introduction of urban traffic management systems. The successful integration of Further, citing the limitations In April 2017, the OEM signed an Meanwhile, Airbus continues to be optionally manned and unmanned of transport being viewed in two agreement with Singapore Post which one of the flag-bearers for smart city systems into urban areas will require dimensions and the need to open up acknowledged a logistics partnership in technology which involves the use of sustained collaboration with this third (aerial) dimension, Cheng relation to the project. drones in a number of ongoing projects. regulatory bodies in order to prove said that he ‘could imagine travelling Cheng said that Skyways would These include Skyways, and the the safety case and win public point-to-point’ in future. continue to ‘extend its operational Vahana all-electric, self-piloted, VTOL acceptance. A year on from its first flight, Airbus experience’ in the coming months aircraft from A³ by Airbus. Speaking with the Unmanned Helicopters’ Skyway UAV recently and years. By Richard Thomas Systems Asia Show Daily, Derek Cheng, demonstrated shore-to-ship trials head of Asia-Pacific urban air mobility at Singapore’s Marina South Pier. Photo: Airbus at Airbus, said that for the region, with The occasion also marked the its rapid urbanisation, the need ‘was inauguration of drone technology dire’ to introduce such technology. deploying goods in a maritime The Civil Aviation Authority of environment. Singapore (CAAS) has introduced The duration of the flight was ten an Unmanned Systems Programme minutes and consisted of the system Office to aid in the integration of such taking a 1.5kg object 1.5km from technology into manned airspace. the shore, dropping off the load and Cheng expressed the need for returning to base. ‘regulatory sandboxes’ to assist in The UAV undertook its first flight the public acceptance effort but in February 2018. The project began said that industry would also have back in 2016 with participation from to step up efforts in the process: the National University of Singapore, ‘Industry needs to play its role to bring whose campus will be used for further forth new technology and business trials, and under the guise of the Civil opportunities.’ Aviation Authority of Singapore. Chinese UAS multiply and go forth

Beijing TT Aviation Technology’s Buffalo Wu, the company’s solution Where high-flying deals await your arrival biggest seller in the agricultural sales manager, noted that Dahua spraying/seeding field is the specialises in multirotors for police and M6E-1 that sprays 10l of security forces (pictured). The X820 pesticide. The larger M8A-pro carries and X1550 are the most popular SINGAPORE AIRSHOW 2020 20l of pesticides or seeds. The hybrid models in its range, the numbers in the Asia’s largest aerospace and defence event M4H sprayer, the newest in that designation referring to their product line, was launched last approximate widths in millimetres. This is the single most influential platform for you to leave an indelible mark on potential business partners. December. China is Dahua’s largest market, Amidst an audience of the best minds and leaders in the global aviation industry, Singapore Airshow 2020 TT Aviation’s multirotor range but sales overseas are increasing, offers you the opportunity to showcase your latest technologies and innovations. Sign on the dotted line and reserve your space today! of UAS is used for power line particularly in Latin America. For inspections, security, mapping and example, Argentinian police ordered Photo: author HIGHLIGHTS FROM SINGAPORE AIRSHOW 2018 logistics. The company also has the 15 X1550s for use during last year’s SP-7 fixed-wing UAS plus the newest G20 summit, while Brazilian police China has a plethora of UAS Aviation commenced operations SP-09 VTOL type available. use Dahua UAS in favelas. 1,062 287 54,151 1,464 companies, and two exhibiting in 2008 and that UAS for Moving on, Hangzhou-based Police forces can use these participating VIP delegations trade attendees meetings companies from from 91 countries from 147 countries conducted during at Unmanned Systems Asia 2019 agricultural purposes make up the Dahua Technology, a company aircraft for tasks such as monitoring 50 countries and regions and regions the exhibition for the first time are Beijing TT majority of sales. specialising in CCTV systems, traffic, identifying illegal parking or Aviation Technology and Dahua However, the company has sold moved into the UAS realm three driving (the cameras can read car Technology. ‘thousands’ of UAS at home and years ago, capitalising on its wealth licence plates), border patrol or Linda Zhou, international trade abroad, with an upsurge in the past of experience with cameras and surveillance, for instance. SECURE A CHOICE SPOT NOW AT [email protected] SINGAPOREAIRSHOW.COM manager, said Beijing-based TT couple of years. surveillance technologies. By Gordon Arthur

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Gladius takes a stab at underwater work Singapore’s Public Utilities entry-level model into the market. Board has been using unmanned The new variant of the system systems to conduct subsurface features improved marine inspections of its network of operating capabilities, including a reservoirs, demonstrating a depth stabiliser, increased growing acceptance of such ruggedness and an upgraded 4K technology across various camera and has been in service industries and organisations since late 2018. operating in the maritime domain. ‘We brought this here The Gladius Mini system, because we find a lot of potential developed by Shenzhen-based [in the region],’ said Salone. Chasing Innovation, has been The Gladius Mini has a operated by Drone Solutions in maximum operating depth of Singapore for the Public Utilities Photo: author 100m and a speed of up to 4kt, Board and will also perform a which also indicates its flow demonstration at a large aquarium in with the Unmanned Systems Asia For Singapore, Salone said resistance. The peak rise and fall the country in the coming days. Show Daily. that the company was ‘really looking speed is 2kt, while battery life Cooperation between Drone Malaysian fish farms have also seen at’ inspection services for harbour reaches 2h. Solutions and the Public Utilities operations by Gladius Mini, as demand authorities and shipping. The onboard camera has a Board was described as a ‘sustained for aquaculture in the region increases, Showcasing its range of 90° field of view and is able to partnership’ by Gianluca Salone, while police, industry and academia in maritime systems at Unmanned transit video in real time to the executive director and founder at Asia-Pacific have also expressed Systems Asia 2019, Drone Solutions operator. Drone Solutions, in conversation interest in its capabilities. is marketing the Gladius Mini as the By Richard Thomas Embraer X treads carefully Whilst industry can sometimes be seen to be taking a rather aggressive Image: Embraer X approach to urban air mobility (UAM), Embraer X, an established business unit of Embraer, is focusing on realistic infrastructure and public acceptance of the movement. Two years ago, Embraer X was formed with a focus on the creation of new, disruptive solutions, technologies, platforms and products motivated from a market-driven perspective, David Rottblatt, business development director at the company, told the Unmanned Systems Asia Show Daily. Getting the company to the next step Rottblatt noted that the form a UAM solutions. With this in mind, Embraer X but also working with communities of assessing UAM is based on humility network takes in a city or country will be is considering the needs of UAM and [to understand] the infrastructure and a sober, cautious approach to bespoke, as it is for the community. the current status quo, and what needs for where these aircraft will land. We prospective platforms flying in an Embraer X took the decision to invest in to happen next to support demand and do assume that this will be a unmanned/piloted scenario in the an eVTOL platform but before how to get there. community-by-community decision urban environment. progressing that further, the company The action being taken by Embraer X in terms of adoption and acceptance ‘We’re not saying that because we has been considering deeply the is in the form of a white paper which will of what the more modern term of are Embraer and we’ve successfully operating environment in which these detail the company’s vision on a new urban air mobility means,’ he built so many aircraft and we’re such a vehicles will fly. concept of operations for dedicated commented. well-known, reputable brand that you ‘We immediately looked at air traffic ATC solutions for UAM operations. It is Rottblatt added that UAM is about should just blindly trust us. We don’t control [ATC] as one of the most expected to be released end of Q2/ making air travel more accessible, and believe in that. I’d like to think that we significant potential barriers to early Q3 this year. this will be through infrastructure points take a more humble approach where scalability for this industry,’ he said. ‘What we’re looking at in terms of and ATC supporting operations for we come in and we learn and then we Embraer has a subsidiary called the next chapter is investing in, not passengers and pilots. develop a solution that’s appropriate.’ Atech which develops ATC technology only a new air traffic control solution, By Helen Haxell

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A selection of some of the equipment on display at Unmanned Systems Asia 2019 Photos by Gordon Arthur

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The SeaGuardian is a certifiable maritime version of GA-ASI’s family of MALE UAVs. (Photo: GA-ASI)

bilateral maritime exercise in Singapore. ‘For the over-the- horizon engagement, Stuart and Vigour were placed against Sirius and Valiant,’ said Lt James Knight, Aerial targets Stuart’s principle warfare officer. Like their Western allies, nations in Asia-Pacific are integrating UAVs in ‘Stuart’s MH-60R was deployed with one of Vigour’s unmanned their respective fleets, recognising that an aircraft with a long endurance aerial vehicles – a first for both can benefit surveillance operations in the oft-contested region. countries, utilising both manned and unmanned surveillance By Beth Stevenson aircraft, proving interoperability between the two countries,’ Tensions around the South China systems, having declared its capabilities under. Within this he noted. Sea between neighbouring Aerospace Industries (IAI) Heron 1 command are the UAV Group, The RAN also operates nations – as well as the fleet fully operational in 2017 – Operations Development Group, the ScanEagle, which carries constant threat from activities five years after it was delivered to Imagery Exploitation Group and advanced sensors, including the in North Korea – are leading the Republic of Singapore Air Force 1 Air Engineering and Logistics Sentient Vision Systems ViDAR militaries to attempt to maintain (RSAF), which used it to replace Group, which collectively ‘deliver (Visual Detection and Ranging) a high readiness level, and UAVs the IAI Searcher UAV that was responsive, persistent and precise payload, although through the can help to provide extra operational since the early 1990s. UAV capabilities to achieve the service’s Sea 129 Phase 5 effort, intelligence to border The nation has claimed that this RSAF’s mission’ and ‘develop the it is seeking a new tactical surveillance missions. system provides the air force with a SAF’s [Singapore Armed Forces’] maritime UAV that will be able capability that is ‘to the level of UAV personnel and raise, train and to carry out battle damage Operational systems advanced militaries globally’, sustain the RSAF’s UAV forces’. assessment, communications/ There are some relatively large adding that it is among the ‘most link node, EW, ISR and SAR work. defence budgets available across advanced UAV systems in its class’. Combined efforts The RAN’s 822X Squadron has the region to acquire some of the Singapore also operates the In the Republic of Singapore Navy been carrying out de-risking with higher-end systems available. tactical UAV, (RSN), meanwhile, the Insitu the ScanEagle and Schiebel However, while many countries which carries a multi-sensor ScanEagle UAV is operated, which Camcopter unmanned rotorcraft in Asia-Pacific wish to develop payload, including EO, FLIR and has recently been used alongside in the lead-up to a decision being UAS indigenously, domestic laser designator, allowing it to Royal Australian Navy (RAN) made, and approval for the products are not so advanced and carry out target acquisition and Lockheed Martin MH-60R acquisition is expected to be the present need for this type of designation, reconnaissance and helicopters during joint manned- granted in 2020, which will be capability is leading to budgets battle damage assessment. unmanned teaming efforts. followed by an RfP later the same being spent on largely Israeli- and Operation of these systems In October 2018, HMAS Sirius year, and a selection in 2021. US-built UAVs. falls under the RSAF’s UAV and Stuart operated alongside the Within the Royal Australian Air Singapore, for example, is a Command – one of six commands RSN corvettes RSS Valiant and Force’s (RAAF’s) Project Air 7003 seasoned operator of Israeli that the air force organises all of its Vigour during the Singaroo requirement, the service

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by our interactions with the a short range air-to-air , Singapore’s Heron 1 fleet was declared fully government of and industry GA-ASI said. operational in 2017. (Photo: RSAF) partners. We are pleased with While no more demonstrations how discussions between the are currently planned, the company and US government is seeking industrial collaboration in have gone to date, and hope an Japan, again to make any potential acquisition decision regarding our sale of its systems to the country RPA will be made shortly,’ the more appealing. It is looking for company told the Unmanned companies that can carry out long- announced in November 2018 that and it was announced on Systems Asia Show Daily. term data storage and machine it had selected General Atomics 27 March this year that the The spokesperson added that learning, fixed-base operation Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) to second of these had been industrial collaboration efforts in services work, support services for provide an armed MALE UAV. contracted. (For more on India are at an early stage, C2 systems integration, support However, the company stated that a ’s UAVs, see Day One although an agreement with services for ISR, and engineering, decision on which variant of the of the Unmanned Systems Asia Sankhya Infotech has already modelling and simulation system the RAAF will opt for is not Show Daily.) been made to assess simulation capabilities, as well as continued expected until mid-2019, be it the Another nation in the region and training relating to data analysis from flight MQ-9 Reaper or the developmental with a strong reliance on imported SeaGuardian for India. ‘The demonstrations conducted near Iki. MQ-9B SkyGuardian. UAVs is India, which operates collaboration aims to tailor RPAS ‘GA-ASI received tremendous ‘Defence has a range of the IAI Heron and is aiming to crew training to comply with the input from industry and is evaluation criteria to make this purchase the SeaGuardian relevant Indian standards,’ the currently sorting through this input decision, and GA-ASI continues to maritime version of the spokesperson added. to ascertain “best of breed” for provide information to support this SkyGuardian from GA-ASI for its future collaboration,’ according to process,’ a company spokesperson navy. The latter development Further afield the spokesperson. It is currently told the Unmanned Systems Asia includes industrial offset, and in Japan has also been assessing unclear as to what type of Show Daily, adding that the November 2018, the company GA-ASI products, having carried application the Japanese number being acquired is also opened an office in New Delhi out maritime demonstrations from government may require a UAV of yet to be decided on. to facilitate expected upcoming Iki island in Nagasaki Prefecture this type for, be it civil/scientific sales to India. in May 2018, during which a and/or military, although the OEM Regional collaborations ‘The United States and Indian company aircraft was used to confirmed that it is able to meet One notable development in governments have pledged to carry out scientific and both requirements. the acquisition is the industrial deepen defence and security disaster-relief missions and ‘In looking at Japan, being an teaming that GA-ASI is offering for cooperation and to work together oceanic observations. island nation and having one of the the buy, which involves it working on advanced defence equipment Using a configuration based largest exclusive economic zones with a number of local companies and technology at a level on the Guardian UAV that is in the world, GA-ASI considers the in Australia to guarantee that work commensurate with that of the operated by the US Department of SeaGuardian variant of the MQ-9 takes place in the country. closest allies and partners of the Homeland Security when it carries family to be a good fit,’ the Ten partners are involved in United States,’ the company said out maritime approaches in the spokesperson added. the deal, including Airspeed, CAE at the time. US, it was the first demonstration Japan also committed to an Australia, Cobham, Collins ‘General Atomics is working of a long-endurance UAV by a acquisition of the Northrop Aerospace, Flight Data Systems, with both governments in an private company in Japan and Grumman RQ-4 Global Hawk in Quickstep Holdings, Raytheon, effort to provide India with included carrying a long-range November 2018, under which it Sentient Vision Systems, TAE a variety of systems and maritime surface search radar, will receive three Block 30i Aerospace and Ultra Electronics technologies supporting national stabilised optical and IR video variants of the system by 2022. Australia, in addition to GA-ASI itself. defence, including General cameras, and an active collision- This deal was first authorised in While Australia does not have Atomics’ MQ-9B SeaGuardian avoidance system, which includes 2015 under a $1.2 billion sale. ■ the capability to produce a UAV of unmanned aerial system this type by itself – as is the case and electromagnetic with most defence sales to the aircraft launch and country – industrial participation recovery systems for with local companies is a key Indian aircraft carriers,’ requirement due to the GA-ASI added. government’s drive towards The MQ-9B is a bolstering its own capabilities. certifiable system that The RAAF was also a seasoned can fly in national operator of the Heron UAV before airspace and will be able retiring the type in 2017, and to carry out wide-area, the RAN is in the process of persistent maritime acquiring the Northrop Grumman surveillance in the Indian MQ-4C Triton HALE UAV. Seven Ocean tropical weather The second Triton for Australia was platforms will be purchased to zone. ‘GA-ASI is upbeat contracted in March 2019. (Image: operate alongside the P-8 about the varied Commonwealth of Australia) Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, opportunities provided

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