He harbors ambitions to mount Hellfire missiles on unmanned helicopters.

Certo Aerospace has been noted to be testing Hellfire missile prototypes on CAPSTONE drones, creating killer UAVs that can be deployed with Apache helicopters.

The photos show the coaxial CAPSTONE drone fitted with short-wing pylons, carrying Hellfire-type missile simulators, with a technician preparing the system for a test.

This testing demonstrates Certo's active development of integrated weapon capabilities in preparation for the NYX Project competition, which requires unmanned systems capable of coordinating with Apache attack helicopters in reconnaissance, target acquisition, electronic warfare, and precision strike missions.

The Apache's primary air-to-ground weapon is the Hellfire missile, and a "loyal teammate" platform capable of carrying or guiding similar munitions would be a significant addition to Apache crews operating in contested environments, extending their range and mitigating risks to the manned aircraft.

BAE Systems Air announced its partnership with Certo via LinkedIn, describing CAPSTONE as a UK-based, sovereign solution ready to meet the Army's needs.

Certo Aerospace was founded in 2008, is led by British veterans, and owns all intellectual property rights in the UK.

According to the company's website, CAPSTONE can carry a payload of up to 300 kg with a maximum range of 300 miles and a continuous flight time of up to 10 hours.

The airframe features foldable propeller tips and a modular landing gear, allowing for launch preparation in minutes, fitting into ISO containers, and enabling operation from ships at sea.

This platform has been undergoing flight testing since 2017 and is now in its third year of testing, operating under the authorization of both the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the US Department of Defence .

The BAE Systems and Certo consortium is entering a competitive arena for Project NYX. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed four shortlisted partners: Anduril Industries, BAE Systems, Tekever, and Thales UK.

The final two units will be selected for prototype development in the autumn of 2026, and an operational variant is expected to be deployed by 2030. This £10 million program is being undertaken in conjunction with Defence Innovation UK.

Cetro, UK Defense

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/anh-nuoi-tham-vong-dua-ten-lua-hellfire-len-truc-thang-khong-nguoi-lai-post2149101017.html