Two European firms have given a special mission aircraft improved versatility in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions with the installation of a new communications setup.
Austria-based Diamond Aircraft’s DA62 multi-purpose platform (DA62MPP) was fitted with QinetiQ’s ShotOver camera and mission system, unlocking the ability to stream high-resolution video to ground stations in real time.
ShotOver’s electro-optical camera setup is designed to enhance situational awareness for troops during critical operations, including border security, search and rescue, and maritime patrol, while maintaining secure data links throughout the mission.
The two firms collaborated to install, calibrate, and test ShotOver on the DA62MPP, validating its ability to adapt to different mission conditions without compromising safety and performance.
“This is a significant achievement, which underscores the platform’s role as one of the most capable and flexible surveillance aircraft in its class and our fleet,” QinetiQ Program Management Head Mathias Mensing said.
“Combining the DA62MPP’s efficiency and range with modern sensors and data links gives operators a powerful tool for real-time intelligence gathering.”
‘Reliable, Future-Ready’
The integration positions the aircraft for more demanding ISR missions.
Julian Prikril, Diamond Aircraft’s Project Management Team Leader, described it as a “reliable, future‑ready solution that extends operational effectiveness for years to come.”
“This project showcases the excellent collaboration between Diamond Aircraft and QinetiQ, ensuring that mission‑critical assets remain at the forefront of technology,” he stressed.
“By modernizing an already operational [multi-purpose platform], we not only enhanced its capabilities but also preserved full airworthiness, safety, and configuration integrity.”
