SAS demonstrated for the first time the SARISA SRS-1A rotorcraft configuration with the RL275-1S rocket launcher. Company representatives reported that the system is attracting increasing interest from Ukraine and other countries.

“This is a unique system. Missiles are usually launched from large helicopters such as Apache and Cobra. “We offer an alternative solution, such as launching missiles with drones,” said Fotis Kampiotis, SAS Vice President of Technology.

The rocket launcher’s kinetic thrust requires an effective stabilizer to keep the drone balanced while firing to engage the target. “There is a system behind the UAV that absorbs most of the kinetic energy produced when fired, which is the absorption mechanism,” said SAS technology developer Christos Hristou.

Successful rocket launch tests were carried out in the summer of 2023. French company Thales is the missile supplier of SAS technology.

“This is a high-precision weapon because it can hit the target with high precision from a distance of several kilometers. The system is radio-controlled within line-of-sight but can also have satellite communications for advanced applications.” said Kampiotis.

SARISA SRS-1 A can be equipped with one or two 2.75 inch/70 mm Hydra 70 missile launchers. The quadcopter can be controlled with a large control station manufactured by SAS or with a small off-the-shelf controller for more complex operations. Source