an independent online news service for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems world
Turbines have an excellent power to weight ratio and as such are the reason is why they are used for helicopters where weight is a critical factor. Nevertheless, their fuel efficiency compared to diesel piston engines is extremely poor, especially for smaller platforms. The diesel piston engine consumes +/- 60% less fuel compared to a turbine with similar specifications and produces up to 40% less CO2 than standard turbine helicopters. Continue reading
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has started testing drones for bridge and tower inspections through the new Kansas Unmanned Aerial Systems program. Continue reading
An Avro 19 (G-AHKX) performs a tight, low speed display at the Shuttleworth Air Pageant airshow in 2014. Continue reading
The latest Google drones have just started taking flight in the real world. But the team behind the technology is slowing down, trimming headcount and shelving initiatives as the experimental unit becomes the latest target of tightening budgets across parent company Alphabet Inc. Continue reading
A radar-equipped drone is blazing a trail for the day when flying robots fill the skies – and deliver your packages. The drone took to the air last month in Texas for a series of tests aimed at finding out how well Bellevue-based Echodyne’s miniaturized detect-and-avoid radar could spot obstacles and other aircraft. The results confirmed that Echodyne is on the right track. Continue reading
Exponent Technology Services has unveiled its SkyCommander at the UTM Convention 2016. Completely encapsulated and independent of any requirement to be electronically coupled with the UAV, Exponent’s SkyCommander provides near real-time situational awareness of UAV operations via a secured cloud based internet platform and existing cellular networks. Continue reading
JW Marriott Hotel & Resorts and DJI have announced a special partnership that will launch the luxury hotel brand’s first Drone Experience Program. The program will provide guests with the opportunity to experiment with DJI’s innovative drone technology. Hotel guests will view the beauty of JW Marriott’s properties through a new perspective, and will be able to capture and share these experiences with friends and family. Continue reading
VStar Systems Inc., a privately held aerospace and defense systems company, has announced the launch of a modular Signal Intelligence Sensor Suite for use on small to large aircraft, including UAV’s. The product family, jointly named MA-X Modular Airborne Signal Intelligence System, is a scalable solution designed to provide critical intelligence at a more affordable price point. VStar Systems will commence flight testing of MA-X in November 2016. Continue reading