The Vesper ISR from developer Vantage Robotics builds on the proven operational performance of the original Vesper platform, trusted by elite operators for covert intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Designed for field portability and rapid deployment, the Vesper ISR small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) delivers extended endurance, precision sensor capabilities, and a low detection profile.
In addition to the original platform’s long flight time, Vesper ISR Pro introduces a 640P infrared payload, optical position hold capability up to 30 meters altitude, and enhanced radio communication options.
Advanced Imaging Capabilities
The Vesper ISR Pro’s sensor suite is built around a 3-axis stabilized gimbal carrying a combination of infrared and electro-optical sensors. The thermal imaging system features a 640x480p VOx long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor with a 63-degree horizontal field of view and ≤60 mK thermal sensitivity.
The electro-optical payload consists of dual 4K sensors capable of recording at 3840x2160p resolution, producing 8-megapixel still images and up to 30 frames per second video.
Low-light operation is supported down to <10 m lux, and operators have access to a combined optical and digital zoom capability of 48×, covering fields of view from 3.5 to 63 degrees. The system’s gimbal offers a user-controllable pitch range from +30° to -90°, with interchangeable payload options including a 320P thermal sensor, photogrammetry-optimized configurations, and an extreme low-light monochrome sensor.
Endurance & Performance
With the Recon Rotor Set, Vesper ISR can achieve a flight time of up to 55 minutes and a range of up to 45 kilometers. The aircraft has an all-up weight of 710 grams and operates with IP54 ingress protection, supporting missions in challenging environments. Performance parameters include a maximum ceiling of 5000 meters, a top speed of 20 meters per second (72 km/h or 39 knots), and a climb rate of 4 meters per second (14 km/h or 8 knots).
The system is rated to operate in winds up to 65 km/h (35 knots) and in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C. Acoustic and visual stealth are integral to its design, remaining unseen and inaudible at a range of 50 meters.
Redundant triple GNSS and optical position control allow precise navigation, with GPS-denied operation possible up to 30 meters altitude using optical positioning. Data storage includes 64 GB of onboard memory and a removable 256 GB MicroSD card.
Modular Design
The Vesper ISR offers multiple rotor configurations to optimize for different mission profiles. The Recon Rotor Set is optimized for maximum endurance and stealth, while the Shrouded Rotor Set supports indoor operations with increased rotor protection. A robust bolt-on design ensures the assemblies withstand impacts.
The system supports open-architecture flight control software such as QGC, DroneSense, and ATAK, and is compatible with Vantage Vision2 and other RAS-A compliant ground control stations (GCS). Optional accessories include a tether kit and a high-gain antenna to extend operational range and enhance link robustness.
Operational Modes
The Vesper ISR can be operated in manual or fully autonomous modes. Mission capabilities include autonomous mission planning with photographic and photogrammetry capture, quick-flight Orbit and Go-To modes, and user-selectable Remote ID compliance.
The system supports automated, semi-automated, and manual takeoff and landing, with return-to-home functions and fail-safe settings that can be triggered by the operator or onboard systems.
Secure & Resilient Communications
Multiple radio configurations are available, including 2.4/5.8 GHz and 1.8 GHz options. The Vesper ISR’s maximum link range extends up to 10 kilometers, supported by frequency hopping and adaptive modulation for reliability in congested environments. Bandwidth can be configured at 4 or 8 MHz. For short-range operations, Wi-Fi enables rapid data transfer to the GCS.
Portability & Rapid Deployment
The entire system, including the GCS, weighs less than 2 kilograms and can be packed into a compact, MOLLE-compatible IP67-rated field case. The case is watertight, dust-proof, dent-proof, and meets MIL-STD 810G standards, with the ability to withstand a 90 kg crush load and a 1-meter drop. The Vesper ISR can be deployed from its case and made mission-ready in under two minutes.
Security & Compliance
The Vesper ISR is designed, sourced, and manufactured in the United States. It is NDAA compliant, Blue UAS pending, and features AES-256 encryption for all communications and stored data. Bonded construction prevents tampering and ensures mission security.
