When do the test flights of the Greek drone “Archytas” begin?

The timeline of the development of the Greek multi-purpose drone manufactured by EAV with the cooperation of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Democritus University of Thrace and the University of Thessaly was revealed by the Minister of Finance Christos Staikouras.

In fact, the Minister confirmed that the test flights will take place in mid-October while its production will begin at the end of this year!

The delays in the production of the Greek drone are observed due to the disruptions that have been caused in the supply chains worldwide, Auto News reported.

In particular, Staikouras stated, regarding the development of the “Archytas” project, that: “One year has passed since the start of the implementation of the ‘Archytas’ program.

“The ‘Archytas’ program concerns the design and industrial production of a multi-purpose autonomous aerial vehicle (drone).

“Based on the evaluation report of the authorities, the project is progressing according to the schedule. Experimental flights (with a scale drone) will take place around mid- October.

“At the same time, the supply and control of the components continues. Minor delays are being observed due to the disruptions that have been caused to supply chains, worldwide.

“It is expected that towards the end of the year (2022) the construction of the actual prototype will begin. EAV structures the production line and sets up the sales promotion department.

“With the completion of the first year, I consider it my duty to congratulate and thank those who have been involved in this national effort on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, my special partners, the Hellenic Aviation Industry, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Democritus University Thrace and the University of Thessaly for their efforts and consistency.

“Greece, with the cooperation of its wider public sector bodies, proves that it wants and can enter the global market of high-tech products in an organised and active manner. We’re moving forward.”

The UAV is expected to substantially upgrade Greece’s defence as a whole while it will also join civil protection services. It will be used for surveillance of the country’s land and sea borders, but it can also be used for commercial purposes.

Greek experts say that Archytas is using technology employed by the US in the unique fifth-generation fighter, the F-35B, which can take off and land vertically.

According to Jane’s Defense, the UAV uses one engine driving a pusher propeller for horizontal flight. The VTOL capability is provided by four electrically powered propellers located on the longitudinal beams connecting the wings with the negative-V tail.

The Archytas features landing gear in the form of four struts designed to maximize flight endurance by producing minimal drag.

The UAV, which will have multiple roles, could be used by the Armed Forces as well as Civil Protection agencies.

It would be used for surveillance, security, and more specialised missions, and “will be an ‘Eye in the Sky’, whose technological features will enable officers on the ground to get all the information they need,” said Kyros Yakinthos, professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, who is in charge of the project.

The project has been named after the Ancient Greek philosopher, mathematician, astronomer, statesman, and strategist, Archytas, who was a scientist of the Pythagorean school and famous for being the reputed founder of mathematical mechanics, as well as a good friend of Plato.