ALTUS LSA, the Greek innovator in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle technology, showcased its novel solutions at BATTLEFIELD REDEFINED 2024 in Cyprus. 

Founded in 2011, ALTUS LSA has gained recognition for providing integrated solutions using drones for border surveillance, intelligence, disaster management, critical infrastructure protection, and most recently, drones with strike capability.

The company’s deep expertise spans to GIS, RGB, thermal and multispectral mapping applications, as well as the training, evaluation and testing of anti-aircraft systems (via target drones).  

Also read: BATTLEFIELD ReDEFiNED 2023 | ALTUS LSA showcases ATLAS 204, ATLAS 4, ATLAS 8 and other innovative solutions in Cyprus – Photos

ALTUS LSA’s distinguished clientele includes, among others, NATO, OSCE, EMSA, FRONTEX, Hellenic Armed Forces, Israel Defence Forces, Qatar Emiri Air Force, European Commission and Cyprus Police.  

At BATTLEFIELD ReDEFiNED 2024, ALTUS LSA presented for the first time the KERVEROS system, which consists of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) ATLAS 8 Heavy Lifter Octacopter Drone System and two MBDA AKERON MP missiles.  

ATLAS 8 is a state-of-the-art platform designed to meet the growing demands for small cargo transport and logistics operations. 

The system’s robust design features eight powerful engines for redundancy and reliability, while its modular payload bay ensures precise deployment of active or passive payloads in the air. These features make the ATLAS 8 ideal for heavy cargo transport, resupply missions and weapon systems integration.  

Building on this foundation, the ATLAS 8 Hybrid was introduced as a work-in-progress system. This innovative vehicle incorporates a hybrid propulsion system powered by eight electric motors and an internal combustion engine, allowing payloads of up to 100 kg to be transported with extended range. 

Its advanced technical specifications—such as a rubber-based fuel tank, autopilot upgrades, and engine improvements—make the ATLAS 8 Hybrid versatile solution for complex operational requirements.  

Also read: ALTUS LSA | Agreement with Hellenic Navy for the procurement of UAV helicopters A900

ATLAS 8 has the following technical characteristics.

When folded, its dimensions are 1545x1285x600 mm, while when fully expanded, they are 3564x3792x1200 mm.The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) is 235 kg, depending on the configuration, and it has a payload capacity of up to 100 kg. Endurance, when carrying the maximum payload, is 3 to 4 hours, with longer times achievable without payload.

The UAV has telemetry capabilities and a video range of over 100 km in line of sight (LOS), which is expandable. It is IP44 rated, upgradeable to IP55 for improved durability. The maximum flying altitude is 16,400 feet and it uses a GNSS positioning system, which includes GPS and GLONASS.

Communication operates on a 2.4GHz frequency, with AES 128 and 256 encryption ensuring secure data transmission. The UAV is capable of operating in a temperature range of -20°C to +60°C, while also supporting automatic take-off and landing.

The UAV requires a crew of two to operate. It has a hybrid power system that includes eight electric motors and an internal combustion (IC) engine. In addition, it is equipped with navigation lights in green, red and white.

Also read: ALTUS LSA | Participates in EUROSATORY 2024 with KERVEROS in the foreground

MBDA’s 5th generation AKERON MP anti-tank missile offers a range of 4000+ metres, making KERVEROS a high-precision weapon system designed for all environments and types of engagements.

Also read: AKERON | Under the sign of European cooperation

In addition to KERVEROS, ALTUS presented its exclusive M3NTOR software suite at the conference. This network-centric mission management system uses advanced artificial intelligence (A.I) and machine learning algorithms to integrate data from various sensor networks.

M3NTOR provides a real-time 3D operational environment, facilitating advanced decision-making and operational planning. M3NTOR received the first prize from the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation in the command and control (C2) of unmanned systems, establishing itself as a benchmark for excellence in managing individual and swarm-based unmanned systems.

Also read: DEFEA 2023 | ALTUS LSA – Impressive presence with ATLAS 8 aerial “cannon” and drones control station