Vertigo Global

Vertigo Global develops lightweight stabilised EO/IR/LRF payloads for tactical unmanned systems, delivering real-time target intelligence and target geolocation through mission-ready ISR solutions. Designed for tactical fixed-wing UAVs, VTOL aircraft and multirotors, the company’s payloads combine stabilised electro-optical and thermal imaging, laser rangefinding, mission metadata and integration support to help operators detect, identify and locate targets with greater speed and precision.

Developed through European engineering and in-house R&D, Vertigo’s low-SWaP payloads are designed for efficient integration into modern unmanned platforms and wider ISR architectures. Supporting NATO-compatible integration, they provide OEMs, system integrators and defence organisations with compact sensing solutions that enhance mission effectiveness while minimising impact on aircraft performance and endurance.

Real-Time Target Intelligence & Target Geolocation for Tactical ISR

Vertigo’s payload systems provide the tactical sensing layer required to detect, observe, identify and geolocate targets in real time. By combining stabilised EO/IR imagery with laser rangefinding, target coordinates and mission metadata, they help shorten the sensor-to-shooter cycle, enabling operators to make faster decisions and rapidly convert observations into actionable targeting information.

Their compact low-SWaP design allows tactical UAVs to retain valuable endurance and payload capacity while delivering advanced ISR capabilities within lightweight weight classes suited to fixed-wing aircraft, VTOL platforms and multirotor systems.

Rather than operating as standalone imaging devices, Vertigo payloads are engineered as integrated components within wider mission systems. Support for KLV/STANAG metadata, APIs, ground control stations and C2 environments enables mission video, target coordinates and sensor data to flow seamlessly into existing ISR architectures, reducing integration effort while improving operational interoperability.

Vertigo is also building a clear path towards AI-assisted ISR, expanding beyond stabilised sensing to incorporate intelligent target tracking, advanced gimbal control, target handoff and increasingly autonomous mission workflows.

In addition to aerial platforms, these stabilised sensing capabilities can also support unmanned ground vehicles, unmanned surface vessels and other robotic systems requiring compact EO/IR mission payloads.

Stabilised ISR Payloads for Tactical Unmanned Platforms

ISTAR120

Lightweight EO/IR/LRF payload for tactical UAVs

The ISTAR120 is Vertigo’s flagship lightweight three-axis stabilised payload, delivering real-time target intelligence and target geolocation for tactical unmanned aircraft. Weighing approximately 1.45 kg, it combines electro-optical and thermal imaging options with precision laser rangefinding, providing mission-ready ISR capabilities while maintaining an exceptionally low SWaP footprint.

Integrated INS functionality enables the generation of target coordinates, while KLV/STANAG metadata is distributed alongside the video stream to support interoperable targeting workflows. With API support and compatibility with a wide range of ground control stations and C2 systems, the ISTAR120 integrates seamlessly into broader tactical ISR architectures.

Combining lightweight design, stabilised sensing and mission-ready integration, the ISTAR120 is ideally suited to tactical UAV OEMs, defence system integrators and organisations seeking compact ISR capability without compromising platform endurance.

ISTAR140

Advanced stabilised ISR payload for larger tactical platforms

The ISTAR140 is an advanced stabilised EO/IR/LRF payload designed for larger tactical unmanned platforms and longer-endurance ISR missions. The approximately 1.7 kg-class system delivers stabilised imagery, laser-assisted target geolocation and mission-ready intelligence, supporting operators conducting long-range surveillance and reconnaissance operations during both day and night.

Designed from the outset for efficient mission-system integration, the ISTAR140 provides a high-performance sensing solution for tactical UAS programmes requiring advanced ISR capability within larger unmanned platforms.

ISTAR100

Compact ISR payload for small UAVs & multirotor platforms

Currently under development, the ISTAR100 extends Vertigo’s ISR portfolio to smaller tactical UAVs and multirotors. This compact sub-1 kg-class stabilised payload is intended to provide lightweight EO/IR sensing and mission integration capabilities for next-generation unmanned platforms where every gram matters.

The ISTAR100 is currently available for selected early-access opportunities and partnership discussions with OEMs and system integrators. Contact Vertigo to learn more about upcoming availability, technical evaluation opportunities and future product developments.