MTU technologies lift EADS Barracuda demonstrator

Posted on: May. 18th, 2006 || Source: mtu.de | E-mail Article | Print Article

Berlin -- MTU Aero Engines has ventured into uncharted technological territory, developing and building the EADS Barracuda unmanned aerial vehicle's flight control computer (FCC). The UAV recently completed its first flight in Spain.

The UAV's FCC was conceived in close cooperation with EADS, basing on technologies developed by MTU over its many years of work in engine control and monitoring systems. MTU has on its own initiative and responsibility built three computers and associated test and monitoring hardware and made them available for flight trials.

MTU's participation in the UAV demonstrator goes a step farther: the company also develops and builds the exhaust gas nozzle. Considering the nozzle forms part of the airframe, not the engine, it called for a separate design. The experimental UAV is powered by a 14-kN-thrust Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D engine. MTU has helped define the requirements for the propulsion system and in close cooperation with its partner Pratt & Whitney Canada has significantly supported its integration into the UAV.

MTU Aero Engines is Germany's leading engine manufacturer and a global player in the industry. It closely cooperates with the big engine manufacturers. The company is the world's largest independent provider of commercial engine maintenance services. In the military arena, MTU is the German industrial lead company for practically all engines flown by the country's services. A technology leader worldwide, MTU excels in low-pressure turbines, high-pressure compressors, engine control units, as well as manufacturing and repair techniques.
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