The CL-289 is a reconnaissance UAV developed by the Canadian firm Bombardier. The German company DASA Dornier and the French Sagem also participated in the UAV’s development. Work on the CL-289 began in March 1987.
This UAV is designed for conducting reconnaissance in divisional and corps intelligence units. It is capable of performing observations, classifying targets, and correcting artillery fire.
Advanced Reconnaissance Capabilities
For these purposes, the UAV is equipped with a stereoscopic camera, an IR analyzer, and a system for real-time image recording and transmission to a ground operator, with a range of up to 70 kilometers.
Special SAR sensors for the UAV were developed under Project Sword (System for All-weather Observation by Radar on Drone), a joint effort by Dornier GmbH in Friedrichshafen and Thompson/CSF.
Technology and Deployment
The launch system is mounted on a PIVER vehicle, manufactured by Aerospatiale Matra. Serial deliveries commenced on November 29, 1990, with the first systems supplied to the German Army.
Deliveries to France began in 1993, with a total of 4 launchers and 55 UAVs produced for their forces.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CL-289 |
| Wingspan, m | 1.32 |
| Aircraft length, m | 3.61 |
| Mass, kg | 220 |
| Engine type | 1 Turbojet |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 720 |
| Flight duration, min | 30 |
| Range, km | 170 |