Pneumatic catapult PL-120

Q: Which pneumatic catapult models are available?

ELI offers four main UAV pneumatic catapult models: PL-40 , PL-60 , PL-80 , and PL-120 . These models are designed for different UAV weights, launch speeds, and operational requirements.

The PL-120 pneumatic UAV launcher is designed for launching UAVs and similar aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of up to 120 kg, achieving launch speeds of up to 35 m/s.

The system features a portable, battery-powered design and allows for fast on-site assembly. For transportation, the launcher can be packed into durable protective cases. Launch carriage rails can be customized to match the specific requirements of the customer’s UAV.

Toolless assembly

The design has been developed with a strong focus on minimizing the need for tools during assembly. Wherever possible, the system incorporates intuitive solutions such as snap-fit joints, self-locking and interlocking components, as well as quick-release fasteners. This approach allows the launcher to be assembled rapidly and reliably in the field or on-site, reducing setup time and simplifying operation even in demanding environments.

Conveniently packable solution

The system is easily portable in five special rugged cases. The combined weight of the launcher and compressor is ca 420kg. The catapult is quickly deployable and collapsible by two operators. It fits into any vehicle that can accommodate five 1.6-meter boxes.

Custom carriages for different UAV-s

Custom-designed carriage solutions are available to accommodate a variety of UAV configurations and fuselage designs. Each carriage is tailored to ensure secure attachment and optimal load distribution. Multiple mounting and interface options are provided, allowing compatibility with different UAV structures and connection requirements.

Take off velocity up to 25m/s

Take-off velocity of up to 35 m/s enables the launch of UAVs with a maximum take-off weight of up to 120 kg. The high initial acceleration significantly enhances take-off performance, ensuring stable and repeatable launches even for heavier UAV platforms. This capability allows efficient operation in environments with limited runway length or constrained launch areas, expanding deployment possibilities and increasing operational flexibility.

Custom carriage rods can be designed based on clients UAV specifications

The PL-80 and PL-120 share a common design language and internal specs. The primary differentiator is length; the PL-120 is the extended variant of the PL-80 platform.

Specifications

Technical parameters


Launch angle	6 degrees
Overall rail length when assembled	12.8 m
Rail length when disassembled	1.42m
Weight of catapult set (3 boxes)	Total 410 kg
Launcher case I external dimensions	1600x550x360mm (100 kg)
Launcher case II external dimensions	1600x550x360mm (100 kg)
Launcher case III external dimensions	1600x550x360mm (100 kg)
Compressor case I external dimensions	360x600x1200mm (55 kg)
Compressor case II external dimensions	360x600x1200mm (55 kg)
Maximum plane mass	120 kg
Maximum allowed launch velocity	35 m/s (meter per second)
Puller configuration aircraft	YES
Pusher configuration aircraft	YES
Typical set-up time (Mechanical assembly. Additional time is added for pressurizing the main tank)	15 min*
Working temperature	-10...+50 °C
Compressor unit battery	2 x Makita®18V Li-Ion battery 6Ah

Launch capabilities

	Plane mass (kg)
	80	90	100	110	120	130	140	150	160
Pressure (bar)	Launch velocity (m/s)
8	25.6	24.2	23.0	22.0	21.2	20.4	19.8	19.2	18.6
9	-	25.7	24.4	23.4	22.4	21.7	21.0	20.4	19.8
10	-	-	25.8	24.6	23.7	22.8	22.1	21.5	20.8
11	-	-	-	25.8	24.8	23.9	23.2	22.5	21.8
12	-	-	-	-	25.9	25.0	24.2	23.5	22.8
13	-	-	-	-	-	26.0	25.2	24.5	23.7
14	-	-	-	-	-	-	26.1	25.4	24.6
15*	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	26.3	25.5
16*	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	26.3

Actual launch speeds may vary depending on the wind speed, aircraft engine propulsion force and proper support by grounding anchor.

* Auxiliary pressure source up to 16 bar needed. Contact seller for more details

PL-120 product brochure

PL-120 standard carriage dimensions

Interested?

Get in touch! We ship orders internationally. We will respond to each request individually, based on your location and your custom needs.Please add additional details about your order in the form and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are ELI pneumatic catapults used for?

ELI pneumatic catapults are UAV launch systems designed to launch unmanned aerial vehicles without the need for a runway. They are portable, battery-powered, and suitable for rapid field deployment.

Which pneumatic catapult models are available?

ELI offers four main UAV pneumatic catapult models: PL-40, PL-60, PL-80, and PL-120. These models are designed for different UAV weights, launch speeds, and operational requirements.

What is the difference between PL-40, PL-60, PL-80, and PL-120?

The main differences are maximum UAV take-off weight and launch speed. PL-40 supports UAVs up to 30 kg, PL-60 supports UAVs up to 60 kg, PL-80 supports UAVs up to 100 kg, and PL-120 supports UAVs up to 120 kg.

Are the pneumatic catapults portable?

Yes. ELI pneumatic catapults are designed for field use and transport. Depending on the model, they are packed into rugged transport cases for easier mobility and deployment.

How long does it take to set up a pneumatic catapult?

Setup time depends on the model. Some models can be mechanically assembled in approximately 5 minutes, while larger launchers may require additional setup and pressurizing time.

Do the catapults support both puller and pusher aircraft configurations?

Yes. Several ELI pneumatic catapult models support both puller and pusher aircraft configurations.

Can the launcher be adapted to different UAV designs?

Yes. ELI can provide custom carriage solutions and carriage rods based on the UAV’s design, fuselage, and launch requirements.