SW-4 Solo

Eye in the Skies

The SW-4 Solo, based on the proven SW-4 light single engine EASA certified helicopter, has been designed to be used both in manned (OPH - Optionally Piloted Helicopter) and in remotely piloted missions (RUAS - Rotary Unmanned Air System) to ensure maximum operational flexibility.

The RUAS variant is controlled through a Ground Control Station (GCS) common for both Leonardo’s RUAS (i.e. SW-4 SOLO and AWHERO). The GCS includes Pilot and Mission Operator Positions and allows the control of all the flight phases including engine start-shutdown, auto-take-off, flight plan and emergency procedure execution, auto-land and payloads operations.

SW-4 Solo features a large cabin with unobstructed sliding doors and flat floor and a large baggage compartment. It can be configured with the most suitable payloads kit to perform a wide range of missions.

The RUAS variant is capable of performing a large spectrum of civil and military roles including Disaster Relief, Law Enforcement, Combat Support, Intelligence, Surveillance Targeting and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, both in Land and Maritime environments. When piloted, the platform can undertake manned activities including Transportation of Personnel, Surveillance and Interdiction Missions.

ISTAR Mission, Manned-Unmanned Teaming and Data Dissemination capabilities have been demonstrated in real operational environment. Furthermore ship deck operation capabilities have been demonstrated in a simulated environment, taking-off and landing from a moving platform.

Main Features
  • Optionally Piloted
  • Redundant Actuation System
  • Remote Engine Start-up/Shutdown capability
  • Precision Approach, precision Auto Takeoff / Landing capability
  • Integrated FMS/FCS
  • Simplified C2/Mission Ground Control Station (STANAG 4586)
Leading Features
  • Multi Payload Capability, including one or more of the following:
    • Radar (including maritime type)
    • Automatic Identification System (AIS)
    • Electro-Optical /Infra-Red system (EO/IR)
    • Electronic Support Measures (ESM)
    • Customer required Payload
  • Flexibility due to Optionally Piloted Capability
  • High Safety Standards ensured by:
    • Redundant Architecture
    • Based on an existing EASA Civil Certified Platform
    • Automatic Emergency Procedures in case of:
      • Data Link Loss
      • GPS Loss
      • Engine Malfunction (Automatic Autorotation Capability)
  • Low Costs
  • Easy Maintenance
  • High Level of commonality with other Leonardo Helicopter Platform

Technical Data