Rustom-2 Update

Rustom-2 prototype at DefExpo 2014

The Rustom-2 is currently powered by twin Rotax 914 engines, each driving a twin blade variable pitch propeller.

Austrian developed Rotax 914 is a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine with air-cooled cylinders and water-cooled cylinder heads. Sustained max power output is 73-kW (100-hp) with a 5-min burst of 84-kW (115-hp) at 5,800 rpm.

A single Rotax 914 powers the MQ-1 Predator in a pusher configuration. The engine is a popular power plant for light certified and home built aircraft, autogyros and military UAVs.

A study is on to assess the feasibility of using a diesel (Heavy Fuel or HF) engine on the Rustom-2.

Coming back to Rustom-2 itself, the prototype displayed at DefExpo 2014 has already done Low Speed Taxi Trials. First flight, which was earlier scheduled for February 2014, has been pushed back to June 2014.

As mentioned in my earlier post, an ATOL (AutonomousTake Off and Landing) system for Rustom-2 is yet to be developed, so initial flights will involve piloted take-offs and landings.

For additional details on the Rustom-2 project please visit the link below

Rustom-2 MALE UAV (IDP Sentinel)