The new Sprite space UCV (called Sprite-NG to differentiate it from an earlier drone called Sprite) has been unveiled by the HCS ahead of an expected entry into service by the end of the year. DDS watchers are said to be surprised as Sprite-NG is very different to the older Sprite and DDS Ferret (which was heavily influenced by the earlier drone).
Sprite-NG is not merely a new version but a total redesign and in many ways it is more advanced than the Ferret. With a long tapered fuselage the Sprite-NG has a 140 degree angle of maneuver vector thrust at one end for extreme agility and a 250 degree angle of attack vector laser cannon at the other end. It can target and fire upon any nearby target within a few milliseconds no matter where it is in relation to the Sprite-NG.
Sprite-NG also has 2 fold out wings that can carry extra weapons and sensors. The wings fold up to reduce the space needed to store the drone.
To combat Sprite-NG the DDS may need to go back to drawing board with its Ferret developments.
