EN - TMI - Curso Engenheiros Navais – ramo Mecânica
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- Final Development and Construction of a Cost-Effective Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to Enhance Operational Capabilities of the Portuguese NavyPublication . Marques, João Rodrigo Teixeira; Policarpo, Hugo Filipe Diniz; Rego, Francisco Fernandes CastroVehicle (UAV) development for military use, including aerodynamics, structural stresses, materials, propulsion, and operational factors. The main objective was the construction of a functional UAV prototype for military applications. Given the growing relevance of UAVs in armed conflicts—particularly amid global tensions—this work addresses the urgent need for safe, effective, and low-cost aerial platforms. Drones allow remote operations, reducing risks to personnel while preserving battlefield effectiveness. However, many military UAVs are prohibitively expensive, while affordable options often lack endurance. This project aimed to develop a UAV, conceived by Portuguese Navy officers Eng. Joel Martins and Eng. José Rodrigues, with a budget under €5000. The project began with design changes to simplify manufacturing while considering the capabilities of the CEOV and SANFLOT units of the Portuguese Navy. Construction employed 3D printing for the internal structure and fuselage, while the planned carbon fiber skin was replaced with fiberglass due to budget and logistics, still ensuring structural performance. During manufacturing, several adaptations were required to overcome practical challenges. However, the process proved time-consuming, and delays in material delivery further extended the schedule. As a result, the project was concluded with the successful assembly of the UAV’s structure, while part of instrumentation integration, validation of calculations, and flight tests remain pending for future development. This work contributes to understanding UAV development in a military context and shows the importance of adaptability in low-cost aerospace engineering.