This is the first formal step in building a partnership that will foster collaboration and drive innovation; the agreement will explore initial concepts for heavy fuel engine systems applicable to Stork-STM, a heavy lift uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) being developed by Animal Dynamics.
The aim of the agreement is to develop a highly performant, reliable and maintainable engine that will be able to address the wide range of environmental conditions Stork-STM will fly in.
Stork STM is an autonomous, heavy lift parafoil built from first engineering principles. It is a new autonomy solution designed to carry heavy cargo weighing 135kg up to 400km (the distance between London and Amsterdam). Operational beyond visual line of sight and able to take off and land across short distances on unprepared ground, it is suited for military resupply, humanitarian aid and emergency response missions.
Orbital has proven experience in developing and operating engines in extreme temperatures, from -30°C up to 49°C, and will play a crucial role in the strategic deployment of Stork-STM, bringing a potential global operating domain to a vehicle designed to work in the harshest of environments
Orbital UAV’s rapid in-house prototyping and cradle-to-grave product lifecycle capabilities enable the Company to take an engine from concept and definition, through to full rate engine production and in-service support, and will help to accelerate the commercial deployment of Stork-STM.
“Animal Dynamics represents an exciting opportunity to take Orbital UAV’s patented engine technology into the European market and expand our global reach,” said Todd Alder, CEO and Managing Director of Orbital UAV. “Stork-STM is a ground-breaking UAS, that will create a unique solution for the defence sector, and beyond.”
Commenting Kevin Allington, CEO of Animal Dynamics, added, “Orbital represent our first choice to develop the best possible powertrain for our vehicle. We’re confident our customers will be able to rely on their performant and reliable technology in the most difficult operating environments.”
As well as powering Stork-STM vehicles, which are being developed for the UK, USA and other allied countries, this engine work will also power a sovereign Australian vehicle, Pelican, being developed in conjunction with Animal Dynamics and Omega Dev Group in Sydney.
Heavy fuel engine capability continues to be a growing requirement and more players are looking to meet this requirement.
“The logistical and safety benefits of heavy fuel - combined with Orbital UAV’s patented technology and proven capability - continue to drive our global growth opportunity,” said Alder. “We already have established contracts with prime contractors in the USA and our major Singapore defence customer. This opportunity with Animal Dynamics expands our global reach and builds on a number of other near-term opportunities.”
