Fan Drive System (FDS)
Rotron Advanced FDS
3-AXIS THRUST VECTORING SYSTEM | LONG RANGE | HIGH EFFICIENCY | COMPACT | LOW COST | VOLUME MANUFACTURE
The Quiet Force Behind Unmanned Air Superiority
- Introducing the next generation of uncrewed aircraft and propulsion system technology. Rotron’s breakthrough Fan Drive System (FDS) redefines the limits of long-range strategic air systems, delivering a step-change in fuel efficiency and performance.
- Engineered specifically to achieve high combat mass, utilising non-complex supply chains for high-volume, cost-efficient manufacture to outcompete conventional turbojet and turbofan architectures.
- The FDS achieves up to four times the operational range while matching the speed and agility of gas turbines across the 50 – 450kg payload class – at a fraction of the cost.
- The R350-FDS also powers Defendor, Rotron’s OWE and UCAV platform – purpose-built for one-way missions where cost-effective performance and reliability are critical.
Fan Drive System Range
R150-FDS
| Description | R150-FDS |
|---|---|
| Payload | Up to 50kg |
| Fan Diameter | 590mm / 23in |
| Length | 780mm / 28in |
| Weight | 44kg / 90lb |
| Thrust | 1,560N / 350lbf |
| Shaft Power Output | 55kW / 74HP |
| Fuel Consumption (75%) | 21ltr (28ltr max) per hour |
| Speed Range | 350 - 750kmh |
R250-FDS
| Description | R250-FDS |
|---|---|
| Payload | Up to 100kg |
| Fan Diameter | 720mm / 28in |
| Length | 940mm / 37in |
| Weight | 65kg / 143lb |
| Thrust | 2,280N / 590lbf |
| Shaft Power Output | 120kW / 160HP |
| Fuel Consumption (75%) | 45ltr (60ltr max) per hour |
| Speed Range | 350 - 750kmh |
R350-FDS
| Description | R350-FDS |
|---|---|
| Payload | Up to 300kg |
| Fan Diameter | 830mm / 33in |
| Length | 1028mm / 41in |
| Weight | 87kg / 191lb |
| Thrust | 3,440N / 773lbf |
| Shaft Power Output | 164kW / 220HP |
| Fuel Consumption (75%) | 62ltr (82ltr max) per hour |
| Speed Range | 350 - 800kmh |
Advanced Engine Test Cell Facility
Rotron Aerospace’s state-of-the-art on site test facility, including 4 certified engine dynamometer and 150m³ hyperbaric test chamber, is the cornerstone of its commitment to innovation, quality, and performance assurance. Designed to rigorously evaluate engines and propulsion systems under real-world conditions – down to -30 degrees and up to 60,000ft altitude. The facility also includes a wide range of testing protocols including endurance, thermal, vibration, and performance validation. Equipped with advanced instrumentation and data acquisition systems, it enables precise measurement and analysis of engine behaviour across various operational scenarios.
Mature FADEC & Dual Redundant System Architecture
Rotron Aerospace’s MAA-certified FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system is a highly advanced and dependable engine management solution, offering precise electronic control over all aspects of engine operation. At its core is an integrated governor control that automatically regulates engine RPM by adjusting fuel and throttle inputs in response to load conditions. This functionality is further enhanced by real-time stoichiometric combustion gas analysis, which continuously optimizes fuel efficiency. These features, combined with Rotron’s proprietary fuel delivery system ensure exceptional performance, operational efficiency, and safety across a wide range of demanding aerospace environments.
Download FDS Information sheet
Download the Rotron Fan Drive System brochure.
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