Vizgard has integrated its advanced visual autonomy software, FortifAI, with Parrot’s ANAFI UKR UAS, introducing the rugged, AI-powered VizEdge for enhanced defense and public safety operations.
This compact tactical sUAS has now been released, and Vizgardās early collaboration with Parrot and Coptrz provided the opportunity to test, optimise, and confirm seamless compatibility between FortifAI and both the new UKR and the previous-generation USA system.
In response to operational feedback, Vizgard has also introduced VizEdge, a rugged wearable device designed to extend AI-driven autonomy to the tactical edge. Built around the NVIDIA Orin processor, VizEdge runs FortifAI as well as a wide range of third-party AI models and Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) applications, including the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK). This open-architecture approach allows teams to tailor the system to the demands of each mission, from surveillance and reconnaissance to rapid threat assessment.
VizEdge provides a substantial leap in on-the-ground capability, delivering seven times the AI processing capacity of its nearest alternative. This additional headroom enables faster filtering of complex data streams and reduces operator workload. The device also maintains broad interoperability, with support for TAK, Nett Warrior, MAVLink, SAPIENT, ONVIF, Next Vision, HereLink, DJI Dock 1 and 2, RTSP, WebRTC, MPEG-TS, and both Parrot ANAFI USA and UKR platforms.
In addition to the Anafi UKR and USA, the device maintains broad interoperability with support for ATAK, MAVLink, ONVIF, NextVision, Gremsy,Ā NMEA 0183, RTSP, MPEG-TS, WebRTC and various third-party proprietaryĀ protocols. In practice, a single operator can coordinate multiple UxV platforms and pan and tilt cameras simultaneously on one screen, streamlining control and data management
The hardware is optimised for rugged deployment without compromising portability. At around 600 grams with enclosure, or just 125 grams in stripped-down form, VizEdge is light enough to be worn in the field while still offering robust durability. It is IP67-rated against water and dust ingress and remains operational in environments up to +55Ā°C.
Sam Denniff, Global Business Development Director at Coptrz, commented, “Weāve been burnt by AI providers who overpromise but underdeliver. Vizgard came highly recommended by a government partner, and theyāve been spot on from day one ā helping us win a bid and backing it up with proactive support.
“Their VizEdge device performed well during trials and fills a clear need for a UK-made, rugged AI solution that increases automation and situational awareness on the go. We look forward to testing Vizgardās capabilities across more of our defence and public safety portfolio.”
AI-driven object recognition is central to VizEdgeās functionality. Vizgard’s proprietary ML models can identify a broad spectrum of potential threats across land, air and sea domains, including but not limited to military vessels, speed boats, various land vehicles, weapons and drones. The open architecture system also prevents vendor lock-in with support for third-party open source models such as YOLOV5 through to 12.
By combining Parrotās latest tactical UAV platform with Vizgardās edge AI technology, defense and public safety teams gain access to a system that enhances autonomy, reduces cognitive load, and accelerates mission execution. VizEdge represents a significant step toward more adaptive and intelligent UAV operations, tailored to meet the challenges of modern tactical environments.
