Partnership Offers UAS Upgrade Path for Safer BVLOS Operations

By Sarah Simpson / 22 Oct 2019
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Robotic Skies Inc and SqwaQ Inc have signed an agreement enabling Robotic Skies Service Centres to distribute, retrofit, and provide field MRO services (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) for SqwaQ communications equipment.

Robotic Skies is the first and only global MRO network for commercial UAS, whilst SqwaQ is a global SD-WAN network and MVNO service provider which can maintain UAS connection at up to 5500′ altitude.

The patented SqwaQbox modem is a powerful new redundant comm-link that can enable drones to fly unlimited-range BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight). A postcard-sized communications modem, which aggregates the bandwidth of up to twelve individual 3G/4G/LTE connections, the SqwaQbox can be both factory-installed and retrofitted to existing commercial UAS.

A multi-redundant, high throughput modem, the SqwaQbox supports reliable UAV command and control as well as simultaneous streaming of pilot view cameras, downward facing cameras and sensors. This can provide UAS pilots with an enhanced onboard cockpit perspective, increasing situational awareness and safety during BVLOS missions.

As well as live FPV (First-Person View) camera streaming, the SqwaQbox can also validate:
– Pilot credentials
– Pre-flight aircraft registration
– FAA flight plan authorizations

This new agreement partners Robotic Skies’ 175 plus certified repair stations across more than 40 countries, with SqwaQ’s ability to provision custom data services on over 600 global cellular networks across 130 countries.

Speaking about the partnership, Ted Lindsley, CEO of SqwaQ said; “As our equipment and services proliferate worldwide, we need front end distribution partners who also have backend MRO service capabilities and an understanding of FAA/EASA/CASA rules and regulations. Robotic Skies has all of these, and we share the same long-range vision of where the industry is going BVLOS.”

SqwaQ’s global, flexible, and secure MVNO solution (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) will allow drones, air taxis, helicopters, and other aircraft to safely share the same airspace; and should be transformational for industrial drones used in pipeline monitoring, power line inspection, perimeter security, border patrol, 911 emergency response and broadcasting.

“This is a great opportunity to help UAS operators evolve with new technology and get more out of their UAS investment by offering an upgrade path to safe BVLOS operations for more complex and demanding mission profiles.” – Brad Hayden, Founder and CEO of Robotic Skies.

Posted by Sarah Simpson Specialising in digital copy Sarah is an experienced copywriter and researcher. Working with Unmanned Systems Technology Sarah has developed a passion for sourcing unique digital content and a talent for writing about the latest technical innovations in the unmanned sector. Connect & Contact