Robot Aviation Develops Fixed-Wing Drones for Inspection, Surveillance & Security

Published: 18 Dec 2018

Robot Aviation, a leading developer of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for military and commercial applications, has partnered with Unmanned Systems Technology (“UST”) to demonstrate their expertise in this field. The ‘Silver’ profile highlights how their drones can fulfil a variety of range and endurance needs, operating under highly challenging conditions.

The FX20 is a high-performance medium-range UAS (unmanned aerial system) that can be operated by a crew of two and transported in a small truck or van. A portable launcher allows for runway-independent operation of the aircraft, with recovery conducted either by net or skids.

With efficient, low noise operation, the FX20 meets all FAA regulations for small UAS under 55lbs. Endurance of three hours or more allows for high-coverage missions, and a GCS that can control multiple UAVs provides convoy operation for uninterrupted surveillance coverage. The FX20 carries an advanced EO/IR payload with multiple-axis stabilization, and is capable of providing radio communications relay support. Thanks to its long endurance, range of 300km and the ability to stream live video from up to 60km away, the FX20 is ideal for both line-of-sight and BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) missions.

The FX450 is a long-range unmanned aircraft with a flight endurance of 20 hours that is specially designed for advanced BVLOS applications. With a highly efficient engine running on gasoline or heavy fuels, and an aerodynamic stall-resistant canard design, it is a highly cost-effective solution compared to manned aircraft with the same size payload and performance.

The system can be equipped with different communication and datalink options, including live video streaming up to 200 km with high bandwidth and encrypted communication options. An open architecture allows for integration of advanced and customized payloads, including external sensor pods, geo-referenced EO/IR, radar, LiDAR, and multi/hyperspectral sensors.

The FX10 is a highly portable hand-launched UAS designed for professional surveillance applications. Capable of being launched within minutes, the aircraft is built around a composite airframe and features a retractable gyro-stabilized EO/IR gimbal. The long-endurance electric propulsion system gives the aircraft a flight time of up to two hours.

The integrated SkyView EasyPilot autopilot uses GPS, INS and laser altitude sensors to provide autonomous operation, including landing. A rugged Ground Control Station provides a long-range (up to 30km) communications and video link, allowing pilots to direct the flight of the aircraft, control the gimbal, and land the UAV.

To find out more about Robot Aviation and their fixed-wing unmanned aircraft platforms, please visit their profile page:
https://www.unmannedsystemstechnology.com/company/robot-aviation/

Posted by Mike Ball Mike is our resident technical editor here at Unmanned Systems Technology. Combining his passions for teaching, advanced engineering and all things unmanned, Mike keeps a watchful eye over everything related to the unmanned technical sector. With over 10 years’ experience in the unmanned field and a degree in engineering, Mike’s been heading up our technical team here for the last 8 years.

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