VStar Systems, which is a privately held aerospace and defense systems company, and Martin UAV, which specializes in research and development, manufacturing, and operator training for complete UAS, have announced the successful completion of a demonstration of the new COMINT capabilities onboard the Martin UAV V-Bat aircraft.

VStar Systems was invited overseas to demonstrate the capabilities of its MA-C2E/Lite, which is a modular Signal Intelligence Sensor that weighs approximately two pounds, and provides COMINT capabilities to Martin UAV’s line of V-Bat drones.

The MA-C2E/Lite system is designed to “function as a highly modular, scalable, flexible tactical COMINT sensor,” with special emphasis on addressing design challenges created by Class 2 or 3 UAS.

“The completion of the demonstration marks a critical step in the right direction. We clearly showed that there is a gap in the ability to collect intelligence and our joint system is able to fill it,” says Andy von Stauffenberg, CEO of VStar Systems.

“I am particularly excited to say that we were able to collect useful and new intelligence during this demo. Of course, thanks go out to Martin UAV and their incredible aircraft.”

Aboard the Martin UAV V-Bat aircraft, which is a Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft designed to fly with a minimal amount of support equipment from very small areas, the sensor made multiple flights, with durations eclipsing two hours.

During the flight demonstration, the MA-C2E/Lite collected signals “from over 100 miles distance” while the Martin UAV V-Bat flew at 5,000 feet above ground level.

The companies say that over the course of several days, other system firsts including altitude, duration, and range were also achieved.

“The integration of MA-C2E/Lite into V-Bat offers a potent combination giving organic intelligence collection capability operating from austere locations with a small tactical footprint,” says COO of Martin UAV, Phil Jones.

“We look forward to continuing development with V-Star Systems targeting both defense and international markets.”