Rolls-Royce selected to power Mantis Demonstrator

Rolls-Royce has been selected to power a new UK Ministry of Defence Unmanned Autonomous System (UAS). The Mantis Advanced Concept Technology Demonstrator programme will help inform the UK’s future UAS capability.

Rolls-Royce is working in conjunction with BAE Systems, who are leading the Mantis programme, to lead the development of an Integrated Power System (IPS) which integrates the twin engines and propellers and associated sub-systems. This capitalises on the company’s expertise in the field of turboprop propulsion.

Martin Fausset, Rolls-Royce Managing Director – Defence Aerospace, said: “Our involvement in the Mantis programme demonstrates a significant milestone in the delivery of the Rolls-Royce integrated power capability and further improves our ability to take advantage of the many opportunities that are likely to arise in this exciting market.”

Graham Hopkins, Rolls-Royce Director of Engineering – Defence Aerospace said: “We have moved beyond the basic supply of an engine. Mantis enables us to take the next step towards providing unmanned aircraft with an Integrated Power System that will intelligently combine, optimise and control all the necessary sub-systems to ensure the effective provision of both propulsive and electrical power.”

The Mantis programme provides Rolls-Royce with an entry into the Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV sector and represents a further extension of the company’s considerable presence in the Unmanned Air Vehicle market. Rolls-Royce is already playing a key role in providing power systems for strategic UAVs, in the shape of Global Hawk, rotorcraft through Fire Scout, and combat UAV technology through the Taranis and nEUROn demonstrator programmes.