Lockheed Martin Samarai monocopter UAV

Lockheed Martin video showing a recent flight test of a prototype of its Samarai mono-wing rotorcraft - or monocopter - unmanned aircraft. The design is insprired by the maple seed, or samara, which autorotates as it falls. This test vehicle has a 30-inch wing span, but Lockheed Martin is working to develop much smaller versions than can be carried in a soldier's backpack, or even pocket, and launched though a window to fly indoors. The next version will have a 20-30cm span, while the ultimate Samarai could be just 5-10cm long. This vehicle is electrically powered by a small propeller.

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Lockheed Martin video showing the latest, smaller version of its Samarai monocopter unmanned aircraft, now in flight test. This has a 30cm wing span (about 12in), has the propeller mounted at the tip of the wing and can take off and land vertically from any surface. This version is designed to transition from outdoor to indoor flight and is small enough to fly through a doorway or window.

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Lockheed Martin video showing flight tests of its 30in wing-span Samarai monocopter unmanned aircraft, inspired by the maple seed or samara. The UAV has a single wing, or blade, and a balance bar with a propeller mounted at the tip that spins the vehicle at 300rpm. It can take off and land vertically like a helicopter.

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