Hanneke Weitering is a writer and editor with AIN covering advanced air mobility and new flight technologies. She became an aviation journalist and joined the AIN team in the summer of 2022 after reporting on spaceflight and astronomy for six years at Space.com. After earning a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, she moved to New York City to pursue a master’s degree in science, health, and environmental reporting at New York University&#039;s Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. After spending several years in the Pacific Northwest, she has returned to the Knoxville area.

Science & Technology Editor

Hanneke Weitering

Phenix Solutions has selected Rolls-Royce’s RR300 gas turbine engine to power its Ultra 2XL heavy-lift cargo uncrewed aircraft system (UAS), the company announced Thursday at Heli-Expo in Atlanta.&nbsp;
Oregon-based Phenix&nbsp;says it considered several different engine OEMs before deciding to go with Rolls-Royce, citing the manufacturer’s “extensive history and proven track record” as its reasoning. “The selection of Rolls-Royce for the Ultra 2XL required input from our engineering and certification teams, but most importantly, our customers,” said Phenix president and CEO Brian Riese.&nbsp;
“Our engineers liked the standard 300 hp available for multi-mission capacity, our aircraft certification team recognized the value [a] Part 33-certified engine brought to our certification efforts, and our customers herald the decision based on the well-documented safety record, reliability, and superior customer support system Rolls-Royce offers,” Riese said.
Earlier this week, Phenix also announced that it had selected SEI Industries to help develop forestry protection and firefighting mission equipment for the Ultra 2XL. The remotely piloted aircraft will incorporate proven SEI products, including the Bambi Bucket and Sling Dragon aerial dispensers.&nbsp;
“This is a real game changer in forestry protection,” said SEI Industries general manager Mark Tayler. “We recently completed a trial with our Sling Dragon with a remote pilot control removing the need for an onboard operator. This control is easily adaptable for the Ultra 2XL autopilot system, allowing the remote pilot on the ground to run the aircraft and equipment effectively.”

News and issues relating to civil and military unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) of all kinds and sizes, including those used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), combat (unmanned combat air vehicles, or UCAVs), law enforcement, research and other applications. Of particular focus is the FAA's planned integration of UAS into the U.S. national airspace system.

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