RaptorE1UAV

Singapore-based Horizon Energy Systems (HES) and Scottish UAV developer RaptorUAS are preparing to conduct the world’s first fuel cell-powered UAV flight in the UK.

During the 300km-flight, the Raptor E1 UAV will fly over the North Sea, from Scotland to Norway.

With the HES-made fuel cell, the aircraft will be able to operate for more than 12h making it suitable for search and rescue operations over sea or land.

The partners are working with the first end-user of the UAV system, Northern Colorado search and rescue in the US.

"We look forward to breaking new ground in the search and rescue arena."

The flight is part of RaptorUAS’ plan to provide the Northern Colorado search and rescue volunteers with a turnkey UAV system to assist in various events, disasters and accidents.

RaptorUAS has recently launched a KickStarter campaign to raise funds.

The fuel cell-powered flight in the UK is one of the several flights planned to be conducted in the near future.

HES CEO Taras Wankewycz said: "We look forward to breaking new ground in the search and rescue arena.

"Long-flight endurance enabled by fuel cells can make a significant difference in challenging field operations, and the difficult conditions in the North Sea make it an ideal proving ground."

HES fuel cells are said to be the longest endurance energy storage systems ideal for electrical UAVs.

In 2007, Nasa-backed Pterosoar UAV system completed a 128km flight using fuel cells.

Earlier this year, HES launched its AEROPAK-S 700Wh/kg fuel cell at the AUVSI trade show in Atlanta, Georgia.

Image: Raptor E1 UAV powered by HES fuel cell system. Photo: courtesy of Horizon Energy Systems / Business Wire.