The Concept of Remotely Piloted Helicopters

The features required in, and some of the problems associated with, a battlefield surveillance system utilising a mini-rpv are reviewed and a case is made for the use of a helicopter in this role. A plan-symmetric, coaxial rotor helicopter is proposed and its advantages and disadvantages are pointed out. In particular its flight control system and flight characteristics are discussed in some detail. The small research remotely-piloted helicopters of this type built by Westland Helicopters are described and finally mention is made of a more sophisticated project presently under construction.