A EU Horizon 2020 Fast Track to Innovation Grant was awarded allowing the development to start early 2016. After extensive studies and preliminary forces analysis, scale models 1:6 have been tested on aerial behaviour. Scale models 1:2 have been tested on aerial and hydrodynamic behaviour with boat and helicopter. Prototypes scale 1:1 were tested, both on aerial behaviour and hydrodynamic behaviour with a mid-size helicopter EC155.
The next step is to carry out tests with a heavy Chinook helicopter, which will be able to approach both speed and lifting capacity of the aircraft ultimately intended for the final test. Tests will start at reduced speed and increase gradually to the designed speed
In the last phase the SCODEV-system will be tested with a fixed-wing aircraft while penetrating at 125 knots/hour and steady scooping during 30 seconds. After successful completion of the “Flight Test Program” the Airworthiness Certificate (STC) will be applied for at EASA and FAA.
