Systel has been selected to provide support to the US Navy Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) MQ-8C Fire Scout programme via the supply of rugged, size, weight and power (SWaP) optimised high-density computing servers.

The MQ-8C Fire Scout is an unmanned autonomous helicopter that provides support to ground, air and sea forces through reconnaissance, situational awareness and precision targeting capabilities.

The Northrop Grumman-built unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is integrated with the Minotaur Track Management and Mission Management System software, which combines data from a variety of sensors to provide a comprehensive common operating picture.

"Our rugged mission computers are specifically engineered for the immense video and data-intensive processing demands of Minotaur platforms, and we are excited to successfully deploy these systems."

NAVAIR Ship Integration IPT lead Rob Murphy said: “Systel has consistently demonstrated innovative and flexible hardware designs and commitment to programme success.

“Their long and successful track record supporting Minotaur-based platforms makes them an ideal technology partner.”

Systel is expected to continue to provide long-term support for Minotaur-integrated platforms across the US Department of Defense (DoD) through the MQ-8C Fire Scout programme, including the US Navy, US Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security.

The company’s 2U and 4U rugged servers are intended to help support intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions within ground control stations and on-board aircraft such as Fire Scout, P-8A Poseidon, C-130J Super Hercules, MEA King Air and P-3 Orion.

Systel programme manager Anu Pankaj said: “We are proud of our continued programme partnerships within the Minotaur community.

“Our rugged mission computers are specifically engineered for the immense video and data-intensive processing demands of Minotaur platforms, and we are excited to successfully deploy these systems in support of Fire Scout.”