Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Powered VTOL UAV Introduced

BlueBird Aero Systems has unveiled a field-proven operational Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAV, powered by a new PEW Fuel-Cell Technology developed by H3 Dynamics.

The WanderB-VTOL Mini-UAS is designed for rapid deployment and operation in any environment. Combat-proven, it can effectively function in GPS-denied and spoofed conditions. This innovative technology provides a sustainable energy solution, resulting in an electric VTOL UAV with advanced reliability and a flight endurance of over 6 hours. 

The hydrogen fuel-cell powered WanderB-VTOL has accumulated a considerable number of flight-hours that validated the system’s performance, including continuous operation for over six hours. 

BlueBird Aero Systems’ diligent testing has demonstrated reliability and mission readiness. The fuel-cell enables up to 1000 operational hours (until maintenance round) and requires easy maintenance. BlueBird Customers will be able to experience this extended endurance by upgrading their WanderB-VTOL systems with the new Fuel-Cell power source.

The WanderB-VTOL specifications:

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 18kg
• Flight Endurance: Over 6 hours
• Flight Ceiling: 16,000 feet
• Payload Capacity: 1.5kg

Operational Advantages of Fuel-Cells vs. Lithium Batteries

The fuel-cell provides a higher energy-density than Lithium Batteries, allowing the UAV to stay on target for significantly longer durations at the same weight, with significant operational advantages: reducing takeoffs and landings cycles to reduced strain and maintenance cost, longer and more efficient missions, less “dead” time on the way to the target’s area. For example, a mapping flight powered by a fuel-cell can cover a much larger area.

A Smarter, Greener Energy Solution

At the core of this system lies a hybrid solution, combining a hydrogen fuel-cell with a backup battery. The fuel-cell provides a continuous, clean power source, generating electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water as the only byproduct. The backup battery ensures additional energy when needed and acts as an emergency source of energy.

BlueBird’s solution enhances sustainability in UAV operations, ensuring that environmental responsibility meets high performance. This breakthrough not only offers a step forward in energy efficiency and mission longevity but also sets new standards for eco-friendly innovation.

With its high performance, high availability and comprehensive customer-support, BlueBird’s fuel-cell powered WanderB-VTOL is tailored to meet the demands of both military and civilian markets.

Ronen Nadir, Founder and CEO of BlueBird Aero Systems, commented, “Bluebird is already leading the VTOL UAV market with battle-proven, reliable and capable UAVs, and now, with WanderB-VTOL powered by Fuel-Cell, even more capable with unmatched endurance for a more effective missions.”