Ultra Electronics is pleased to announce that its Precision Air Systems business has signed an agreement encompassing a worldwide marketing, development and manufacturing licence with RCV Engines Limited for a 4-stroke, lightweight, dual fuel Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Engine.

With its inherently low emissions, impressive fuel efficiency and extremely high power to weight ratio, RCV's patented rotary valve engine technology offers unique benefits for small UAV applications. Moreover its ability to operate both on kerosene (JP8) as well as on gasoline is particularly attractive for defence applications. Interest in such micro-UAVs is booming worldwide, based on a growing number of potential defence and civil applications. Such vehicles are ideally suited for combat and peacekeeping roles, including the clearance of mines and other munitions, general surveillance and reconnaissance work, as well as civil applications such as border monitoring, fire-fighting, geological surveying and even filming major sporting events.

Kevin Hurst, Ultra Electronics Precision Air Systems Sales and Marketing Director said 'We are delighted to have reached agreement with RCV to bring this product to market. It's excellent fuel efficiency and dual fuel capability will offer UAV operators significantly increased mission endurance and the logistics benefit of being able to use either JP-8 or gasoline fuels. We are currently working with RCV to develop an Electronic Engine Management System and production units will be available early in 2010. We will be displaying the engine on our stand at the Paris Airshow.'