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Feb 09, 2025

Oct 11, 2024

Milkor UAE’s 16 m patrol craft, Commander, at WDS 2024. (Milkor UAE)

Milkor UAE unveiled a new 16 m patrol craft, named Commander, at the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024 held in Riyadh from 4 to 8 February.

Milkor has designed the vessel specifically for the Middle Eastern region and is responsible for the manufacturing of the craft.

Development started in late 2023 and the craft will take another year to be manufactured in full scale ahead of its official launch in February 2025 at IDEX. While Milkor Commander has been primarily developed for use as a manned platform, it may be operated as an unmanned platform as well, a company official told Janes. All tests, including sea trials, are expected to be completed by late 2024.

Based on an aluminium monohull for enhanced durability, the vessel is designed to operate at high speeds and long ranges, and carries a crew of four in addition to six combat troops, with extra space on deck. The 20 tonne craft has an overall length of 16 m, a beam of 4.3 m, and a draught of 0.84 m.

The payload capacity allows it to be adapted to a wide variety of roles, including maritime patrol, high-speed interception, infrastructure monitoring and inspection, surveillance, and search and rescue. In manned mode it can be used in littoral combat operations and in remotely piloted unmanned mode it can be used for surveillance roles.

Milkor, a leading name when it comes to defence solutions, is proud to announce it has secured the Diamond Sponsor position for the inaugural Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 Conference that will take place during the upcoming AAD exhibition – Africa’s premier defence trade show.

AAD 2024 runs from 18 to 22 September, while the Conference will take place over the key trade days of 18 to 20 September at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, forming an integral component of the exhibition.

Organised by defenceWeb, which will also be producing the Show Daily publication, the Conference promises to be a convergence of industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders from around the globe who will examine pressing topics in aerospace and defence. Milkor’s association as the diamond sponsor underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence within the defence sector.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Daniel du Plessis, Marketing and Communications Director at Milkor, said, “We are thrilled to partner with the AAD 2024 Conference as the diamond sponsor. This collaboration signifies our dedication to fostering dialogue, innovation, and collaboration within the defence community. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders and stakeholders to drive advancements in defence technologies and solutions.”

The conference will feature three distinct themes over its duration:
• Conference Day One: Future Warfare (18th September 2024) – Exploring the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of warfare, from unmanned technology to cyber warfare.
• Conference Day Two: Maritime Security (19th September 2024) – Focusing on strategies, technologies, and partnerships aimed at enhancing maritime security across the globe, particularly in light of the resurgence of Somali piracy and Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.
• Conference Day Three: South African Defence Industry Showcase Day (20th September 2024) – Highlighting the capabilities, achievements, and opportunities within South Africa’s defence industry, including world-leading innovative products, intellectual property, and partnership opportunities.

Milkor is also the Diamond Sponsor of AAD 2024 and will have a big presence at the exhibition. “AAD is the largest event showcasing the technologies developed by the South African Defence Industry (SADI). This event creates opportunities for companies to present and demonstrate their technologies to decision-makers and has been a large contributor to the success of defence and security solutions,” du Plessis said.

The company will be showcasing a wide range of its products at Waterkloof come September, notably its flagship Milkor 380 unmanned aerial vehicle – with an 18.6 metre wingspan, it is the largest such aircraft built in Africa. Milkor will also highlight its wide range of handheld 40 mm grenade launchers, 4×4 armoured personnel carrier, Milkor IPC (Inshore Patrol Craft), with some new additions to their naval and land portfolio to be announced during the show.

Milkor’s strong presence at AAD 2024 highlights its commitment to providing defence and security solutions locally and internationally while paving the way for economic growth, job creation and skills retention through local manufacture.

For those interested in participating as sponsors or speakers in the AAD 2024 Conference, please contact Angela Mace at defenceWeb Events via email at angela@defenceweb.co.za.

Milkor, a leading light in aerospace and defence technology, is excited to showcase its most recent innovations at Dimdex 2024 in Qatar. The highlight of their exhibition is the Milkor 380 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), accompanied by a comprehensive selection of 40mm weaponry systems and scale models of the Milkor IPC and Milkor 4×4.

Armand Bodenstein, the company’s Business Development Director, elaborated on the importance of Milkor’s presence at the event, stating, “Our participation at Dimdex 2024 highlights our commitment to broaden our international presence and strengthen relationships with Qatar’s esteemed end users. Our interaction with local partners is a testament to our dedication to becoming a leading provider for Qatar’s industry and end users.”

The showcase’s centerpiece is the Milkor 380 scaled model, which displays its adaptable armaments, including Thales FZ602 launchers with Thales FZ275 LG rockets and Desert Sting 16 glide weapons.

The Milkor 380, capable of carrying up to 400 kg beneath the fuselage and 230 kg under each wing, is powered by a turbocharged piston engine. It boasts an impressive endurance of 35 hours and a range of over 2,000 km. Notably, it is the largest UAV designed, developed, and manufactured in Africa.

Milkor takes pride in being the diamond sponsor for the upcoming Africa Aerospace & Defence 2024 exhibition in Pretoria this September, demonstrating their continuous support for the South African defence industry. This sponsorship underscores Milkor’s ambition to elevate South African defence technology on the world stage and solidify their status as a global defence market leader.

Milkor’s active participation in international defence exhibitions reflects its crucial role in the global defence sector. By consistently innovating and establishing international partnerships, Milkor sets the benchmark for South African technological leadership in defence.

From its origins as the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the 40 mm multiple grenade launcher, Milkor has diversified into UAVs, armoured vehicles, and naval ships.

With a product line that includes single-shot and six-shot grenade launchers, both armed and unarmed UAVs, and the Milkor IPC and Milkor 4×4 Armoured Personnel Carrier, Milkor continues to lead in defence innovation and excellence.

In an exclusive interview, Milkor representatives emphasized the UAV 380’s significant role in enhancing safety and efficiency in civilian maritime operations. The UAV 380 features a robust design, long-range capabilities, and a variety of customizable payload options, making it a versatile tool for diverse maritime tasks.

“Milkor’s UAV 380 is engineered to meet the demanding needs of the maritime sector,” stated a company spokesperson. The UAV 380 is equipped with advanced surveillance systems, including high-resolution cameras and sensors, to provide real-time data and imagery for effective maritime monitoring. Its extended range and endurance allow it to cover vast areas, ensuring comprehensive surveillance and timely response during emergencies.

The UAV 380’s versatile payload options enable customization for specific mission requirements, enhancing its adaptability and functionality. Designed with multiple safety mechanisms, the UAV 380 ensures secure and reliable operations in challenging maritime environments.

MILKOR presented the manned/unmanned convertible MILKOR IPC (Inshore Patrol Vessel) at the World Defense Show, which took place in Riyadh from 4 to 8 February.

At the WDS 2024 exhibition in Riyadh, MILKOR has showcased MILKOR IPC, a hydrofoil-assisted catamaran vessel designed for both manned and unmanned operations, marking a significant advancement in naval capabilities. The versatility of this vessel extends patrol durations by transitioning between autonomous and crewed modes, allowing the crew crucial rest periods while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Trials of the MILKOR IPC have concluded successfully, and the company is currently engaged in procurement discussions with an undisclosed Middle Eastern country, positioning itself as a useful asset in maritime security.

The hydrofoil-assisted catamaran boasts a stealth design that minimizes radar cross-section, particularly crucial in the challenging coastal waters environment where late detection by radars is anticipated. The catamaran configuration not only enhances seaworthiness but also addresses the challenges lightweight vessels face in adverse sea conditions, as highlighted by company officials.

While MILKOR IPC excels in coast guard and surveillance missions, its adaptability extends to offensive capabilities, featuring two lightweight torpedoes and a remote weapon station (RWS) on the showcased scale model. Additionally, the vessel provides the option to integrate two more RWSs, making it a formidable choice for base protection missions against both surface and sub-surface threats.

The vessel’s command and control bridge is equipped with integrated surveillance systems, offering a comprehensive solution for pilotage, navigation, and weapons control. The modular design of the ship’s wheelhouse allows for seamless integration of various payloads and technologies, tailored to meet the specific requirements of different customers.

The vessel emerges as a dynamic and adaptive solution, positioning itself at the forefront of naval innovation. The successful completion of trials and ongoing procurement discussions underscore the vessel’s potential impact on modernizing naval fleets and enhancing maritime security capabilities. The company’s commitment to versatility and cutting-edge technology reinforces the vessel’s status as a pivotal player in the evolving landscape of naval operations.

Specifications:

• Length: 12m
• Beam: 4.8m
• Draught: 0.87m
• Displacement: 13 tonnes
• Engine: 2 x 450 hp
• Propulsion: 2 x outboard
• Personel: 4 people
• Cruising speed: 25-35 knots
• MAx speed: 50 knots
• Loiter speed: 7 knots
• Range: 650 – 750 nautical miles

South African defence company Milkor on Thursday reaffirmed its partnership with German group Aerodata, to develop a maritime surveillance version of the Milkor 380 uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV). This partnership was first announced at the ILA Berlin Air Show 2024, last week.

The Milkor 380 is a medium altitude long endurance UAV. The company is currently assembling six of the aircraft, which will all be completed by the end of this year. Deliveries of “several” of the UAVs will, the company reports, take place over the next 12 months, to undisclosed customers. The new maritime version has the designation AeroForce 380, and is basically a combination of the Milkor 380 UAV with Aerodata systems and sensors.

“The Milkor 380 has garnered substantial interest from multiple entities looking to enhance their aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities,” highlighted Milkor business development in Europe head Harry Cassidy. “With the addition of Aerodata’s experience in maritime surveillance sensors, the development of the AeroForce 380 will set a new standard in global maritime [surveillance] by combining state-of-the-art unmanned technologies with proven maritime surveillance sensors. The collaboration is one of the key explorations Milkor is undertaking to meet the growing demand for sophisticated UAV solutions and underscores Milkor’s role as a premier partner in the international defence sector.”

“With a maximum take-off weight of 1 300 kg and the capability to carry mission-specific payloads, the AeroForce 380 has the potential to revolutionise surveillance aircraft fleets worldwide,” affirmed Aerodata. “It’s worth noting that Aerodata’s contribution includes state-of-the-art mission system technology, complemented by maritime surveillance sensors from its subsidiary, Optimare Systems GmbH. This integrated approach guarantees optimal performance and support, ensuring AeroForce 380 remains at the forefront of maritime surveillance technology.”

The AeroForce 380 has a maximum service altitude of 30 000 feet (9 144 m), but the basic design has been modified to allow effective sustained operation at altitudes below 10 000 feet (3 048 m), because it is these lower altitudes that are best suited to maritime surveillance missions. The UAV has an endurance of up to 35 hours. It has a payload of 250 kg and it can carry a range of sensors, including gimbal-mounted electro-optical and infrared imagers, side-looking airborne radar, and ship Automatic Identification System receivers.

South Africa’s largest UAV, the Milkor 380 is making itself known at WDS wearing full Royal Saudi Air Force markings, and carrying an array of advanced weapons.

South Africa’s largest UAV, the Milkor 380. Image: BillyPix

Known as the Milkor UCAV in this armed form, the aircraft is ITAR-free, and has a ‘payload agnostic’ systems architecture, allowing the integration of weapons from any source.

The aircraft can undertake various intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) roles with payloads including Sigint/Comint systems, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) and an under-nose Wescam MX-15 electro-optical/infra-red (EO/IR) gimble.

For armed missions, the aircraft can carry 400kg under the fuselage and 230kg under each wing.

The aircraft at the show carries an Al Tariq-X glide bomb under the centreline. Al Tariq-X is a kit that can be fitted to US Mk 81 and Mk 82 series bombs, with global navigation satellite system (GNSS) guidance, GNSS with semi-active laser and GNSS with imaging infrared (including automatic target recognition) guidance, and with sophisticated GPS anti-jamming solutions.

The aircraft also carries Desert Sting 25 glide weapons underwing, although it can also be armed with Halcon Desert Sting missiles or Thales FZ602 rocket launchers – both on dual racks.

Powered by a turbocharged piston engine running on Avgas or Mogas, the aircraft has a maximum endurance of 35 hours and a range of more than 2,000km, and is certifiable allowing autonomous flight even in unsegregated civil airspace.