22-0009-2 UAV for use in aerial surveying and monitoring in Antartica - NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS

NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS awarded a contract valued at 8,000,000 EUR (tender 22-0009-2) to acquire two Windracers ULTRA MK1 UAVs for aerial surveying and monitoring in Antarctica, supporting the Troll Observing Network (TONe) at the Norwegian Troll research station in Dronning Maud Land. These heavy-lift autonomous cargo aircraft, capable of carrying up to 100kg payloads including optical and radar sensors over 1,000km ranges, will collect data on physical, biological, chemical, geological processes, ice shelves, atmosphere, marine ecology, and seabirds in this data-poor region, building on prior successful Antarctic missions. The UAVs are slated for delivery in Q1 2025 and operational use from the 2026/2027 season as part of a £200 million upgrade including a new station and observatories.

Notes

Merged TED refs: 169149-2024, 152790-2024