The Dutch SSBV Aerospace and Technology Group (SSBV) has unveiled its ACRIDS product line for Precision Airdrop Systems.

ACRIDS, an acronym for Aerial Cargo Rider System, is based on the use and further development of the SPADES Precision Airdrop technology from Dutch Space B.V. For this purpose, SSBV and Dutch Space B.V. have entered into an agreement regarding the purchase and transfer of the SPADES Precision Airdrop technology earlier this year.

As part of the agreement, SSBV has acquired the Intellectual Property rights, existing systems, hardware and software components and background information related to the SPADES technology.

The original development was established through a co-operation between the Netherlands MoD, Dutch Space and the Netherlands Aerospace Laboratory (NLR). Through the acquisition, the further development and commercialisation activities of the system are now the responsibility of SSBV, who is maintaining the close co-operation with NLR.

ACRIDS is a mature product line of reusable systems that are able to autonomously deliver cargo with a weight of up to 1000 kg (2200 lbs) to a pre-designated location on the ground, with an accuracy of 50 meters. The ACRIDS system can be dropped from altitudes up to 25,000 feet and supports NATO standard release methods and cargo containers.

The system is composed of a steerable parachute and a control unit which contains a GPS receiver, sensors, actuators, batteries and a computer with an innovative autopilot which continuously monitors the current location, heading and altitude of the system, corrects for wind and other flight parameters and ensures a smooth landing at a pre-designated location on the ground.

The ACRIDS product line is further developed and marketed by SSBV Defence and Security B.V., which also provides high-tech systems for Signal Intelligence (SIGINT), Satellite communications and a new generation of compact airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar systems.