SkyNaute enters commercial aviation

The SkyNaute inertial navigation system, developed by Safran Electronics & Defense, is now being integrated into the Airbus A220 aircraft. This marks the first time the system will be used in a commercial aircraft, following its long-standing use in military aircraft and helicopters.

Replacing traditional systems

The SkyNaute system is replacing older gyrolaser inertial systems with GRH (Hemispherical Resonator Gyroscope) units. These new systems offer improved resistance to signal jamming and spoofing, which are growing concerns in aviation.

Enhanced accuracy in challenging conditions

Safran highlights that SkyNaute maintains high accuracy even when GPS signals are unavailable or disrupted. This is becoming increasingly important for civil aviation, as regions around the world face more frequent signal interference.

Technological components

Each SkyNaute system includes three GRH sensors and three accelerometers. All components are manufactured in Montluçon, France, where Safran has invested heavily in expanding production capacity.

Production expansion

In June, Safran announced a 120 million euro investment to modernize its Montluçon facility. The goal is to triple GRH production from 10,000 to 30,000 units annually by 2032, supporting growing demand for the technology.

GRH sensor design and benefits

The GRH sensor uses a silica-based hemispherical resonator to measure deformations. It is significantly lighter and more energy-efficient than traditional laser gyrometers, reducing both weight and manufacturing costs.

History of GRH in aviation

Safran introduced a GRH-based ADIRU (Air Data Inertial Reference Unit) for Airbus over a decade ago. The unit was lighter and more energy-efficient than previous models, demonstrating the potential of GRH technology early on.