UAV Turbines recently launched the Monarch RP family of microturbine engines, which are quiet yet powerful propulsion systems designed for Group 3 and 4 UAS.

The engines have passed all critical tests in the cell, working through operating cycles repeatedly for extended periods of time, according to a news release. The company is now conducting ground testing with an airframe partner.

“After several years of intense effort, our talented team of engineers has developed a complete, turnkey microturbine propulsion system for Group 3 and 4 UAVs that is unique in both utility and function,” UAV Turbines CEO Kirk Warshaw states. “Throughout the design process, we focused on creating the world’s first reliable, lightweight, high-performance microturbine engine for small aircraft that runs on heavy fuel. As we have matured the design, we now recognize that a microturbine in this category has limitless possibilities across the propulsion spectrum.”

The reliable engine can run on different types of heavy fuels, such as jet fuel, and features a variable pitch propeller for greater performance in aircraft used for both commercial and military applications.

“The Monarch RP propulsion systems changes the game for unmanned flight,” said William T. “Tim” Crosby, MG (R) Chairman of UAV Turbine’s Board of Advisors, according to the release. “The U.S. Military is in critical need of a reliable heavy fuel engine that ensures our troops consistently have the support of their UAVs when they need them. The successful evolution and testing of the Monarch RP propulsion systems proves that reliability, added safety, and efficiency is possible and will soon be available to the warfighter in a variety of platforms.”