“Exail Revitalizes Airbus SIRTAP Tactical Drone with State-of-the-Art Inertial Navigation Technology”
Exail, a global leader in inertial navigation technologies, has been selected, in collaboration with its Spanish partner Grafinta, to supply the UmiX-40 Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) for integration into the navigation system of Airbus’s SIRTAP tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), developed by GMV. This alliance will provide Airbus with a vital component to enhance the SIRTAP UAV’s precision and reliability in challenging operational environments.
The UmiX-40 combines superior navigation and stabilization capabilities in an impressively compact, solid-state design, enabling seamless integration into space-constrained platforms such as the SIRTAP UAV. Outfitted with Fiber-Optic Gyroscopes (FOG) and in-house engineered Vibrating Beam Accelerometers, it assures reliable performance in GNSS-denied scenarios and extreme operational conditions, guaranteeing mission continuity and flight safety even in contested or deteriorated navigation situations. Its sturdy architecture and plug-and-play integration render it perfectly equipped for the operational demands of long-endurance ISR missions across various and rugged terrains.
“We are grateful for the trust Airbus and GMV have placed in us for this important project,” remarked Alexandre Maia, Regional Sales Manager at Exail. “The UmiX-40’s precision, durability, and compact design make it an excellent fit for the rigorous operational requirements of the SIRTAP UAV. Its high-performance features will deliver a reliable and accurate navigation solution to meet the operational needs of the Spanish Army and Air and Space Forces.”
Engineered by Airbus, the SIRTAP UAV is a versatile unmanned system designed for sophisticated ISR missions, boasting an operational endurance exceeding 20 hours and a range surpassing 2,000 km. The integration of Exail’s UmiX-40 IMUs will enhance the SIRTAP UAV’s navigation system, ensuring seamless operation across all flight phases, from taxiing to in-flight maneuvers and landings, even in the most demanding environments.
This collaboration underscores Exail’s commitment to the continuous advancement of essential defense systems in Spain, further reinforcing the company’s dedication to pioneering technology solutions within the defense domain.
