Discover World-Leading Unmanned and Autonomous Technologies
Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
WISPR Systems specialize in rugged, turnkey drone solutions built for professionals in surveying, mapping, telecom, utilities, public safety, and other boots-on-the-ground industries
In this Q&A, John McArthur, Chief Revenue Officer at WISPR Systems, discusses how the company evolved into a leader in surveying, mapping, and public safety, with drones like the SkyScout 2 and Ranger Pro driving innovation through features such as PathGuard and SmartCore. He highlights BVLOS and drone-in-a-box technologies as the next frontier for autonomous operations.
How has WISPR Systems’ product line evolved since its inception in 2016, and what factors influenced the expansion into sectors like surveying, mapping, inspection, and public safety?
When WISPR was founded, our focus was on serving the Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) industry, hence the name WISPR. We started by attaching antennas to drones to perform point-to-point site surveys for building internet towers in rural America and, over time, expanded to working with PCI scanners and RF payloads. While that work was valuable, we recognized that to grow into the kind of company we aspired to be, we needed to move beyond that niche and into larger, higher-demand markets like surveying, mapping, inspection, and public safety.
I often say that we had to “plant our flag” somewhere to establish credibility and stand out in the increasingly competitive drone industry. For us, that starting point was surveying and mapping. Building a reputation there gave us the foundation to expand into additional markets and continue growing our brand.
How do the SkyScout 2 and Ranger Pro series incorporate key technological innovations that differentiate them from other drones on the market?
The SkyScout 2, our latest flagship model, represents a major step forward in professional drone technology. When we introduced the original SkyScout in 2024, we created a new category of small drones, under five pounds, that could carry interchangeable, high-end payloads, a first in the industry.
The second-generation SkyScout builds on that foundation with several key advancements. New features include PathGuard for enhanced obstacle avoidance, TempGuard for dynamic climate control, the SmartCore power distribution system providing redundant clean power, TerrainSense for live terrain following, SignalShield for advanced EMI protection, and the S-Port, a quick-attach system that combines power and data into a single interface.
For the SkyScout 2+, we also introduced the SkyBoss hand controller, a Blue List-compliant smart controller designed for enterprise users, offering a complete suite of tools and capabilities to support even the most demanding missions.
What are the most commonly integrated payloads with WISPR drones, and how do these integrations enhance the drones’ capabilities for specific applications?
Our most commonly integrated payloads include LiDAR sensors from RESEPI and YellowScan, mapping cameras such as our own WISPR 24MP Mapper and the Sony LR1, and the Vio dual RGB/thermal sensor from Gremsy. We focus exclusively on integrating cutting-edge payloads that provide real value to our customers, ensuring they have the tools needed to complete their work effectively.
Our approach is guided by direct feedback from end users while also anticipating the future needs of a rapidly evolving industry. When I first interviewed for this role, our Chairman told me, “We’re a software company that builds drones for specific applications.” It took me nearly nine months to fully appreciate what that meant. Because we develop and control our own software, and integrate payloads down to the code level, we can design drones that are truly tailored to the unique applications and challenges our customers face.
What is the process for customizing WISPR drones to meet specific client needs, and can you share examples of unique modifications made for particular industries?
Our customization process begins with a detailed requirements document that incorporates feedback from our internal team, dealer network, and end users. From there, we work closely with stakeholders to identify which features are mission-critical versus those that are simply “nice to have.”
Because our platforms are designed with modularity in mind, and we control both the software and firmware, we can quickly adapt to new mission sets and payloads as customer needs evolve. A great example of this was a bridge deck scan requested by a client with very specific parameters. Under the leadership of our VP of Software, Karl Eaves, our engineering team designed, tested, and deployed that capability in less than 24 hours.
What are WISPR Systems’ plans for future product developments, and how do you envision the evolution of drone technology impacting industries like surveying and public safety?
We’ve just successfully launched the SkyScout Series 2, and while the next major release isn’t formally planned, our pipeline is full of promising ideas. Much of our focus is on anticipating how regulatory and technological advancements will reshape the industry.
One of the most transformative developments on the horizon is the combination of drone-in-a-box solutions with broader approval for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. Together, these advancements will fundamentally expand what’s possible, enabling drones to be deployed autonomously from secure stations, complete missions without an on-site pilot, and return to recharge, all under clear regulatory frameworks.
This shift will unlock entirely new workflows and mission sets, from continuous infrastructure monitoring to rapid-response public safety operations, that aren’t practical today. At WISPR, our role is to ensure that when these capabilities become mainstream, our platforms, software, and integrations are ready to help customers capitalize on them from day one.
Thank you for your time, John. It has been a pleasure speaking with you, and we look forward to following the continued advancements and adoption of WISPR Systems’ innovative drone platforms, software, and mission-specific solutions across surveying, mapping, inspection, and public safety applications.
