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Background

  • The initial concept for the project was built on the BAE Systems funded Raven programme and many other technology de-risking activities undertaken under both industry and MoD funding.
  • The Raven programme demonstrated in flight an autonomous system using a configuration similar to the one proposed for Taranis.
  • Building on the success of the Raven programme Taranis aims to push the boundaries by providing advancements in low observability capability and autonomous mission systems operations demonstrating the feasibility and utility of UAVs.
  • The joint funded contact was placed in December 2006. Originally valued at £124. 5M, the contract has been uplifted under separate approvals to £142. 5M and extended by approximately one year to accommodate an additional programme of work with a wider scope. This utilises the Taranis air vehicle to provide further outputs with wider exploitation into manned fast jet aircraft and includes additional risk mitigation activities to enable full realisation of the programme objectives.
  • BAE Systems was appointed as the industry lead and prime contractor of this joint project to develop a world-class UAV TDP called Taranis.
  • BAE Systems formed an exclusive teaming arrangement combining Rolls-Royce, the Systems division of GE Aviation (formerly Smiths Aerospace) and QinetiQ to work alongside UK MoD military staff and scientists to develop and fly Taranis.
  • BAE Systems, as prime contractor, will provide many elements of the Taranis technology demonstrator, including the low observability, systems integration, control infrastructure and full autonomy elements (in partnership with QinetiQ).
  • Rolls-Royce will focus on the next generation propulsion installation for the demonstrator and the Systems division of GE Aviation will utilise their skills in 'vehicle systems'.
  • The TDP Programme also uses a number of other UK based suppliers.
  • Other BAE Systems companies include BAE Systems Australia, who supply the flight control computing and support from BAE Systems Integrated System Technologies (INSYTE) with C4ISTAR related work.

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