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ZAI performed a complete redesign of the Sentry UAV produced by the S-TEC corporation.
The UAV was altered from the material level up, including a complete structural and manufacturing redesign. The new design makes extensive use of advanced composites in order to decrease weight, increase interchangeability, and increase overall quality.
In addition to material and structural changes, aerodynamic changes were also incorporated in order to "clean-up" the aircraft. Enlarged Sentry Fuselage Section
The results of the redesign were dramatic:
Planform area increased by 10%
Empty weight reduced by 20% (structural weight reduced by over 45%)
Cruise speed increased by 20%
Stall speed reduced by 20%
Airframe strength increased by 50%
Airframe rigidity increased 100%
Improved flight characteristics near stall
Interchangeability of aircraft parts
Incorporation of fuel and payload storage in wings
ZAI has since assisted S-TEC in the development of a larger version of the aircraft.