Light training UAV "Piranha-5"
General view of the Piranha-5 UAV in the basic training/reconnaissance configuration
The Russian army actively uses various unmanned aerial vehicles, and has also established a system for training operators for them. The training process uses existing UAVs of various types, and specialized models are also offered. Thus, for this purpose, a new light UAV was recently developed and brought into series production UAV called "Piranha-5".
Continuation of the line
One of the most active domestic UAV developers is the Simbirsk Design Bureau (SKB) "Piranha". To date, it has presented and brought to production several drones for various purposes under the general name "Piranha". Recently, a new model of this line became known.
The Izvestia publication reported on a new product in the Piranha series. On November 2, in its new article, it shared information received from a representative of the developer organization. The very fact of the existence of a project called Piranha-5, its goals and purpose, as well as its main technical features, was revealed.
The development of the Piranha-5 began in the recent past, and by now the project has been successfully completed. SKB Piranha designed, manufactured and tested prototypes. The equipment passed the tests and confirmed the calculated characteristics. Following these activities, the new UAV was launched into serial production.
The newest Piranha-5 is intended for use in the personnel training system. Future UAV operators must master such equipment and learn to operate it. At the same time, they will be able to develop the skills necessary to operate any other multicopters in service with our army.
Course camera for flight control
SKB Piranha is also considering other options for using its new drone. Due to its small size and high flight characteristics, it can be used for reconnaissance in the near zone. In addition, the drone is capable of carrying light ammunition and acting as a disposable strike FPV drone.
Details of the serial production and delivery plans for the UAVs, for obvious reasons, remain unknown. However, it can be expected that in the coming months the troops will receive a sufficient number of Piranha-5s and will begin to use them for their intended purpose. They will complement other drones of the same series and significantly expand the capabilities of the troops.
Simplified design
The Piranha-5 UAV is a typical modern FPV-class quadcopter. At the same time, a special role allowed to reduce the size and weight of the device. In addition, the drone is made as simple as possible, due to which they want to optimize mass production and operation in the training system.
The training UAV is built according to a traditional quadcopter design. Its base is a cross-frame made using 3D printing. Electronic components are installed on top of the cross-frame, and above them is a decorative fairing in the form of a fin. A compact battery is suspended from the frame below.
"Piranha-5" is smaller than any other UAV of its series and other similar devices. The crosspiece diameter does not exceed 120 mm, and the takeoff weight is only 300 g. At the same time, the drone is capable of lifting up to 1-1,5 kg of payload.
Electric motor with propeller
The Piranha-5 power plant consists of four low-power electric motors equipped with lifting propellers. With such a power plant, the UAV can reach speeds of up to 220 km/h. Low weight and high thrust-to-weight ratio allowed for increased maneuverability.
The duration and range of the Piranha-5 flight are not reported. However, it is indicated that the drone can use both the standard battery and more capacious batteries from other UAVs of the Piranha series. This should have a positive effect on its flight characteristics.
"Piranha-5" uses a standard set of electronics. For flight control, a radio module for receiving commands and a speed controller are provided. There is also a course video camera with a transmitter of a video signal and other data. Other devices or functions are absent and are simply not required. Communication means allow the drone to move away from the operator at a distance of up to 1-3 km.
During training or reconnaissance, the Piranha-5 can fly without any load or with a battery of increased capacity. The developers also propose equipping the UAV with light ammunition in accordance with the remaining reserve of carrying capacity. These can be grenades or homemade ammunition.
Apparently, we are talking about a rigid suspension of the load and the use of the drone as a kamikaze. However, it cannot be ruled out that a release device similar to those used on other unmanned vehicles will be developed for the Piranha-5.
"Flying Desk"
The concept of a specialized UAV for operator training looks interesting and has its strengths. The use of such equipment can significantly improve the process of personnel training and provide various advantages.
One of the main advantages of the new Piranha-5 is its simplicity. This UAV can be produced and supplied in large quantities, and the army's requirements can be met in a limited time. At the same time, production can be organized at existing facilities without their restructuring. Accordingly, it will not harm the production of other copters.
Despite its simplicity, the Piranha-5 is equipped with all the necessary components and devices. Using it as an example, operators can study the design of quadcopters, as well as master their maintenance and repair. From this point of view, the new UAV can be considered a universal training aid.
The Piranha-5 is small in size, which reduces the requirements for training sites. Both limited open spaces and various premises are suitable for training flights. At the same time, it is possible to organize various obstacles, simulate buildings, etc.
The training UAV is characterized by high speed and maneuverability, and in these parameters it surpasses many other quadcopters in service. Having mastered the control of this device, the operator will be able to confidently control any other UAV, regardless of their characteristics and capabilities.
The Piranha-13 cargo drone is one of the latest developments in the family of the same name
It should be noted that the introduction of the Piranha-5 does not exclude the use of other types of drones in training. The new model from the Piranha Design Bureau should become a kind of "flying desk" for initial training. Having mastered it and received general knowledge and skills, students will be able to move on to more complex equipment. At the second stage, they will study the types of UAVs that they will have to use in the combat unit.
It is interesting that the developer suggests using the new UAV not only for training. Without any modifications or changes, the Piranha-5 is capable of conducting reconnaissance within a radius of several kilometers. At the same time, its small dimensions and weight simplify its transportation, and the operator can carry several devices with him.
With virtually no additional modifications, the Piranha-5 can become a kamikaze drone, and in the future, it can be turned into an ultra-light bomber. It cannot be ruled out that the army will take advantage of these capabilities.
In all categories
The domestic industry, represented by various organizations and enterprises, develops and produces UAV-copters of all main classes. It tries to cover the army's needs for reconnaissance and strike equipment. In addition, projects for new classes are being developed.
SKB Piranha has proposed a specialized quadcopter for training operators. It has already undergone all the necessary tests and has been put into serial production. It can be expected that the original concept will interest the armed forces, and the new UAV will find a place in training structures. And it cannot be ruled out that the Piranha-5 will remain the only one of its kind.
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