The Berkeley Aerobotics group is also expanding its research scope into the advanced control and coordination of fixed-wing UAVs. Leveraging on their expertise, experiences, and thoroughly investigated flight control software from the rotary wing cousins, BEAR group has created a fully autonomous UAV platform, the SmartBATS: Single Man Aerial Reconnaissance Technology-Battlefield Assessment Telewing. They chose a wing-body type UAV for its rugged construction and the convenience to hand launch without the need of a runway. Even with a 48” wingspan, its modular design allows it to be easily broken down to fit into a 24”x11”x4” space for ease of transportation, and the SmartBAT can be set up and flying again in less than five minutes with no tools required. Payload capacity for sensors, cameras and such is 11 lbs., it has a two mile range, can be flown visually or by video G.P.S. downlink, is silent when gliding and is undetectable under power @ 500’.
