An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology was successfully demonstrated this month at the CSIR’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Laboratory. Code-named H2UAV, the system was developed by a team from the CSIR comprising aerospace systems engineers and carbon capture and utilisation technicians working with Hydrogen South Africa.

A hardware-in-the-loop technique is used to demonstrate and evaluate the H2UAV’s operational performance, efficiency, durability and safety.

The benefits of hydrogen propulsion for UAVs are well documented – including higher energy density for longer endurance, clean emissions, faster refuelling, reduced weight 

and added payload capacity. It also operates quietly, making it an ideal option for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

The H2UAV is a hybrid fixed-wing, vertical take-off and landing UAV with a modular design that allows for rapid payload reconfiguration, making it adaptable for various mission types, whether for patrol or monitoring and surveillance tasks. Weighing 35 kg, with a four-meter wingspan, the UAV handles a 5 kg payload and has a flight time of approximately 10 hours or more.

The multi-year project was initiated and funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. While the hydrogen fuel cell research is still in the fundamental development stage, the project promises to yield results that will assist the local market. Once completed and integrated, the CSIR intends to license the fuel cell propulsion system to a local partner for industrialisation and commercialisation.

The CSIR Impact Area Manager for Aerospace Systems, Biko Managa, reiterated his team’s intent to push the boundaries of propulsion in aviation for the local industry. “We are working to position South Africa as a leader in hydrogen-based aviation technologies, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner future for aerospace,” he said.

“The pursuit of hydrogen alternatives is not only about reducing gas emissions that harm the environment but at the CSIR, we also view it as an opportunity for exploring new fields of science, developing new skills, creating jobs, fostering partnerships and driving up exports of South African products,” he added.