BAE Systems Mantis

Lore & Background

Development of the Mantis started in late 2007, with a mockup revealed at the 2008 Farnborough International Air Show. The Phase 1 vehicle is powered by two Rolls-Royce Model 250 turboprop engines, though this is likely to change in later variants. The Mantis is intended to have at least 24-hour operational endurance and is an autonomous vehicle, able to pilot itself and plot its own course, communicating with ground personnel regarding its observations.

Phase 1 focuses on evaluating autonomous control systems and demonstrating BAE Systems' rapid prototyping capabilities. Later phases may evaluate civilian applications, armed variants and sensor packages. The large dome on the front, reminiscent of a pilot's canopy, contains an upward facing satellite communications system.

The prototype first flew on 21 October 2009 at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. In 2013 the Mantis was flight tested in the United Kingdom. It was used as the basis for the BAE/Dassault Telemos, the development of which was discontinued.

Reader's Guide

The Mantis programme is significant as a British demonstrator for UCAV technology, emphasizing autonomous control systems and rapid prototyping. Its Phase 1 involved partners including the UK Ministry of Defence, Rolls-Royce, QinetiQ, GE Aviation, L-3 Wescam, Meggitt and Lola. The vehicle's autonomous capability—able to pilot itself and plot its own course—marks a step toward reducing human intervention in combat air operations. The Mantis also served as the basis for the BAE/Dassault Telemos, though that development was discontinued. Its flight testing in Australia and the UK, along with its 30-hour endurance and six hardpoints, indicate a platform designed for persistent surveillance and potential armed roles. The programme's legacy lies in advancing autonomous flight systems and informing later UCAV designs, though the article does not specify any operational deployment or production status.

Did You Know?

• It is powered by two Rolls-Royce M250B-17 turboprop engines, each producing 280 kW (380 shp).
• The large dome on the front contains an upward facing satellite communications system.
• The Mantis was used as the basis for the BAE/Dassault Telemos, which was later discontinued.