Description

NightHawk QS3

The NightHawk QS3 is a composite, high-wing, three-seat, long-endurance aircraft that was thoughtfully designed by personnel with experience in quiet surveillance and clandestine operations. The innovative design features a low-acoustic signature and an efficient propulsion system that runs on diesel/jet fuel, allowing the aircraft to operate and deliver critical information in regions where infrastructure and aviation gasoline may be in short supply. It is harder to see and hear, and harder to be detected by radar, thermal imaging and/or night vision than any aircraft now in operation today. The NightHawk QS3 current TRL is 6.

NightHawk QS3 aircraft in the hangar

100% Composite

NightHawk QS3 is 100% composite construction (97% Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic and 3% Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic (for RF transmissibility).

Aerodynamic Efficiency

High aerodynamic efficiency with both evolutionary and revolutionary improvements over 1st and 2nd generation quiet aircraft.

Two Power Plants

Two (2) power plants -the primary 260 HP aero diesel drives three-bladed variable pitch propellor, and a back-up 300 pound-thrust, lightweight turbojet engine.

NightHawk QS3 is a conventionally-configured aircraft with composite construction

The NightHawk QS3 is a low-acoustic signature surveillance aircraft designed to operate effectively in expeditionary and low intensity conflict scenarios, as well as assist civil authorities in investigations and enforcement activities globally.

Developed by Lawrence R. Davis, who has extensive experience with similar aircraft for US and allied governments and civilian entities, the QS3 is equipped with modern avionics and was designed and built through consultations with military personnel, aircraft companies, and other experts.

View the Specs

Quiet operations enabled by:

  • Composite low-drag airframe & sailplane-like wings
  • Slow turning propeller pitch in ‘quiet mode’, with controllable pitch
  • Enclosed exhaust and cooling air mixing tunnel to reduce / cancel / re-direct engine noise and thermal signature away from the enemy