The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) is currently evaluating two new models of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones, which will greatly expand its surveillance capabilities.

The JOUAV CW-15 and CW-40 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) are manufactured by the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC). 

Their VTOL capability is an excellent feature for conducting operations in remote, or heavily forested, areas, as it eliminates the need for a clear runway. The drones have a loiter time of up to eight hours, depending on payload, and are capable of carrying up to 8kg on short flights.

Their cargo configuration can include a wide range of real-time video surveillance equipment, or any other mission-specific equipment.

The software provided with the aircraft allows for remote take-off and landing, and they are suitable for overflying marine or terrestrial environments, making them the perfect tool for monitoring forests and fisheries.

While addressing the closing ceremony of yesterday’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries annual meeting, Prime Minister Hun Manet instructed the authorities to use all means at their disposal to combat environmental crimes, including UAV surveillance.

The prime minister recently reiterated the importance of upgrading the Kingdom’s military capacity, while making it very clear that the modernisation process is in order to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cambodia, rather than for any offensive purpose.

The flight trials are being overseen by RCAF deputy commander Ith Sarath, chief of the joint staff, at Kampong Chhnang Airport, according to local media outlet BTV.