For the first time in history: SARISA SRS-1X drone starts launching Hydra 70 missiles (video)
SAS Technology claims to be the first to launch a 70 mm missile using such a lightweight and small drone. They hope that SARISA will be able to replace expensive attack helicopters.
On April 25, the SARISA SRS-1X UCAV combat drone from the Greek company Spirit Aeronautical Systems (SAS Technology) successfully passed a missile firing test. Greek Reporter writes about this, citing a statement from the manufacturer.
During the test, the SARISA SRS-1X launched a Hydra 70 missile manufactured by Thales Belgium. The demonstration video shows a quadcopter UAV flying over the coast with a tube-like launcher and firing towards the sea. During the launch, SARISA leaned forward strongly due to the recoil, but quickly straightened up.
SAS Technology emphasizes that this is the first time a 2.75-inch/70mm missile has been launched from such a small and lightweight drone. It has shown that it can provide air support to the military and replace expensive attack helicopters with laser-guided missiles.
The firing tests were conducted at a range owned by and under the auspices of the General Directorate of Defense Investment and Armaments (GDDIA) of the Greek Ministry of Defense, with the support and active participation of Hellenic Defense Systems. SAS Technology is now preparing for the next phases of the program, which will include additional fire tests, mainly with the Thales Laser Guided Rocket FZ275. The company intends to improve the guidance system and develop tactics for its use.
It is expected that in the future, SARISA drones armed with missiles will be able to defend Greek islands from enemy invasion from the sea, participate in special forces operations, and cover the military on the water. The drones will be at the full disposal of unit commanders, who will not have to ask for support from fighter jets or attack helicopters every time.
Earlier, we wrote about the JACKAL combat drone, which can also launch Martlet missiles made by Thales. It has successfully fired missiles during tests led by the British Air Force.
We also wrote about why Hydra 70 missiles have been in use for 70 years. They were developed back in the 1940s, but many developed countries, including the United States, continue to keep them in service due to a number of advantages.
