The British company BAE Systems demonstrated a future drone model at the World Defense Exhibition in Riyadh, indicating the future direction of development. It is more mysterious than a Raymond Chandler novel, and it allows us to see the prototype of future military drones.
International defense shows are often more like birdwatching fests than showcases of the latest military hardware. Defense contractors not only like to showcase their products for sale, they also like to give a sneak peek of upcoming products. Many times these are presented as models or concept diagrams without explaining what they are.
While this may be a bit frustrating for the more curious, it does add a bit of adventure to the proceedings.
In BAE Systems' latest presentation, we only saw the model number, but not the specifications. Not even a name. However, there are various clues that give us some insight into the aircraft. The drone's wings are diamond-shaped delta wings, suggesting it can fly at transonic or supersonic speeds and have a small radar cross section. It features jet power, a V-shaped tail to reduce drag, an angular fuselage, jet exhaust shrouds and a dark coating, suggesting stealth played a large role in its details.
It will be up to BAE to decide when we will learn more, and whether it will leave the drawing board and become a de facto product.