Turaz features separate batteries for its pusher propeller and VTOL system (Janes/Huw Williams)
Azerbaijan's DefTech has developed two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to the pre-production stage and unveiled the platforms at ADEX 2022 in Baku.
Speaking to Janes at the event, DefTech's co-founder and head of commercial, strategy, and development, Anar Iskandarov, said that work on the aircraft commenced around 18 months ago and in collaboration with Azerbaijan's National Aerocosmic Agency.
The Turaz is a fixed-wing tactical level UAV fitted with a vertical take-off and landing capability. The aircraft is configured with a traditional pusher propeller and four vertical-lift rotor blades positioned on the wings: one fore and one aft on each side of the wing surface on arms.
Iskandarov said that the Turaz is primarily intended to fill an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) role for land and naval forces – including shipborne operations – and can accommodate a variety of podded payloads under the fuselage.
The aircraft can be broken down for transport in a vehicle, in which its batteries can be charged. According to company data it can be controlled out to a distance of 200 km.
Both the VTOL system and pusher propeller are electrically powered, with separate battery units.
Iskandarov explained that customer demand for runway-independent operations and the experience of Azerbaijan's military had driven the development of the VTOL capability.
DefTech's OVÇU-G4 is a large quadcopter fitted with counter-rotating rotor blades on each of its arms. It can carry up to four 81 mm mortar bombs, which can be dropped in single, double, or full salvo modes. It features a ballistic computer linked to the flight control system that positions the aircraft to engage designated targets.
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