QinetiQ GmbH has successfully integrated an upgraded surveillance and communications package onto the Diamond Aircraft DA62 Multi-Purpose Platform (MPP), enhancing the aircraft’s capability for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
The upgrade, completed in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, includes new communications equipment, a high-resolution electro-optical camera and a secure real-time data link, allowing the aircraft to transmit live video feeds to ground stations.
According to QinetiQ, the integration includes a newly fitted ShotOver camera and mission system designed to provide “real time situational awareness” during tasks including border security, intelligence gathering, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and maritime patrol.
The company said the work was carried out jointly by teams from QinetiQ GmbH and Diamond Aircraft, who undertook installation, calibration and testing to ensure the new sensor payload could operate effectively with the aircraft’s avionics and communications suite. QinetiQ described the installation as demonstrating the modular design of the DA62MPP, which allows it to be adapted for different mission roles without compromising airworthiness or performance.
Mathias Mensing, Head of Programme Management at QinetiQ GmbH, said: “This is a significant achievement, which underscores the platform’s role as one of the most capable and flexible surveillance aircraft in its class and our fleet.”
He added: “Combining the DA62MPP’s efficiency and range with modern sensors and data links gives operators a powerful tool for real-time intelligence gathering.”
Diamond Aircraft Industries said the project modernised an already operational platform while retaining its safety and certification standards.
Julian Prikril, Team Leader Project Management at Diamond Aircraft Industries, said: “By modernizing an already operational MPP platform, we not only enhanced its capabilities but also preserved full airworthiness, safety, and configuration integrity.”
QinetiQ said the aircraft is now mission-ready and able to support a wide range of ISR operations for both military and commercial customers.
The RAF had a couple of these for persistent low profile ISTAR over Helmand I recall.
They were at Lyneham for a time. Don’t know what happened to them.