Thales has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Qatar armed forces to assist in the development of an optionally piloted vehicle – aircraft (OPV-A), a high performance intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) system, and the delivery of a full end-to-end training solution.

The OPV-A airframe, to be selected by the Qatar armed forces, will be integrated with a mission systems capability to enable the optionally piloted capability.

OPV-A to be developed is a hybrid between a conventional aircraft and an unmanned aircraft system (UAS). They are able to fly with or without a pilot on board the aircraft. Unimpeded by a human’s physiological limitations, an OPV is able to operate under more adverse conditions and/or for greater endurance times. Retaining on-board controls, the OPV can operate as a conventional aircraft during missions for which direct human control is preferred or desired as an immediate option.

“This is an exciting prospect that Thales is looking forward to developing with the Qatar Armed Forces. Our experience in mission systems and unmanned air vehicles will provide Qatar with a world leading solution,” said Victor Chavez, CEO of Thales UK.