Thales’s new modular Watchkeeper X system reflects a growing need for high-end military-standard Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability to wider markets.

This modular unmanned aircraft system offers a range of options that can be adapted to specific operational requirements. The versatile system is ideal for providing high-performance ISTAR over a wide range of air, land and maritime scenarios but can now also provide covert, rapid reaction to threats if required. Thales aims to deliver Watchkeeper X through collaboration with local industries and partnerships. This unique approach to unmanned aircraft systems means that Thales can help to build a truly sovereign capability for our customers.

At the heart of Watchkeeper X remains a fully certified, combat proven, high-performance unmanned aircraft system. Building on this solid foundation, Thales now offers a range of options in sensors, exploitation, mobility and effectors, which can be integrated, upgraded or adapted to make this a fully flexible, modular capability today and in the future.

With its fast deployment, high endurance, flexible payloads and precision strike, Watchkeeper X will respond to the growing need for ISTAR capabilities. Whilst built to the same standards as a manned aircraft, it is highly transportable and its modular design means it can be adapted and upgraded for specific operational requirements.

“Watchkeeper X is based on a ground-breaking, world leading unmanned aircraft system that was designed specifically for the requirements of the British Army. There is no other capability like it available in today’s market. We have now taken the knowledge and expertise that we have gained over the history of the programme and looked at how we can make it more flexible, effective and readily available for our customers, to help them address the different operational contexts they may face,” said Pierre Eric Pommellet, Thales Executive Vice President, Defence Mission Systems.