BAE Systems has announced its intention to re-fly the Mantis UAS concept demonstrator – this time in UK airspace. This will be the first flight of a UAS (unmanned air system) of this class in UK airspace.

Flying Mantis will enable BAE to continue to mature a number of UAS capabilities and technologies, underpinning BAE Systems’ strategy to become a world-class provider of unmanned air systems. The flight activity will support the development of future MALE (medium altitude long endurance) and UCAS (unmanned combat air systems) operational capabilities, including the programmes announced at the Anglo-French summit in February this year. By looking to fly Mantis in the UK, BAE Systems is directly aiming to address the associated challenges of airspace integration and safe operation of an airborne system in accordance with UK rules and regulations.