Working with universities and government – the ASTRAEA programme
29 Apr 2009
BAE Systems is part of a consortium of major aerospace companies, universities, innovative small firms and the Government working on the pioneering £32 million ASTRAEA programme.
ASTRAEA is addressing key technological and regulatory issues in order to open up non-segregated airspace to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The aim of the programme is to find ways to promote and enable safe, routine and unrestricted use of UAVs.
The programme will support the UK’s credentials in this field and strengthen collaboration across university, industry and regulatory authorities. It aims to generate jobs and help small to medium enterprises (SMEs) grow and develop, establishing the UK as the leader in the world market. By affecting regulatory changes, ASTRAEA also aims to create a civil market for UAVs.
ASTRAEA is one of a number of aerospace technology validation programmes attracting Government investment at BERR/DIUS and regional level to ensure that the aerospace industry maintains its global strength and develops world class technologies in line with the National Aerospace Technology Strategy.
The safe and routine operation of UAVs could offer considerable public benefits, particularly in the areas of safety and security, emergency and rescue services, logistics, environmental monitoring and transport management.
Half of the funding for the programme is being provided by the public sector and the rest comes from the industry partners: AOS, BAE Systems, Cobham, EADS, QinetiQ, Rolls Royce and Thales.
Six of the country's leading universities – Cranfield, Lancaster, Leicester, Loughborough, Sheffield and West of England – are engaged in the ASTRAEA programme, and sub-contracts have also been awarded to the universities of Aberystwyth and Glamorgan.