Boeing, Paramount developing weaponized surveillance plane

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, March 10 (UPI) -- Boeing and South Africa's Paramount Group are expanding their cooperation on a light reconnaissance aircraft by developing a strike-mission variant.

The advanced, high-performance, reconnaissance, light aircraft, or AHRLAC, will feature ISR capabilities and weapons systems.

"Working with Paramount, we'll not only bring a flexible, persistent and affordable aircraft to the international market, but we'll also be developing world-class technology in Africa," said Jeffrey Johnson, vice president, Boeing Military Aircraft ‎, Business Development of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

"This is a momentous milestone in AHRLAC's evolution. The multi-role aircraft will become a significant player in the global aerospace industry. We believe in the commercial success of the aircraft and its impact on the future of the African aerospace industry by boosting advanced technologies, job creation and skills development," said Ivor Ichikowitz, executive chairman of Paramount Group.

The AHRLAC is a two-seat intelligence and surveillance aircraft. Its prototype conducted its first flight in the summer of 2014. The new military variant, called Mwari, will feature an integrated mission system for the aircraft enabling ISR and light strike missions.

Additional information was not disclosed.