Drones have proven to be an invaluable tool for providing rapid and reliable information that can be used to make quicker and more informed decisions in the field. By using drones, operators are able to reach areas that would previously put human life at risk and/or provide intel that would normally require far more expensive equipment (i.e helicopters/planes).

Using drone technology, personnel are able to more efficiently and effectively plan/evaluate missions. This can be done by using partner software such as PIX4D mapper, which can create 3D reconstructions of environments, providing the ability to visually verify information and improve accuracy.

We understand that defence organisation tackle varied tasks on a mission by mission basis, therefore the key word is versatility. Companies such as Parrot and Sky-Hero are well respected brands that are used by military personnel due to their focus on security and encryption. The Parrot Anafi USA SE was purpose built for military use. It is a the quietest drone in its class and boasts a 4km range and an impressive 32 minute flight time. It is also extremely portable, fitting in a backpack and weighing just 499 grams, also flyable in under 55 seconds.

For missions in complex terrain such as dense urban areas, confined spaces and underground passages, you won’t find a better drone on the market than the Sky-Hero Loki 2. This rugged quadcopter works entirely GPS denied, meaning there is no requirement for an internet connection and can also be used as a sentry for up 3 hours – streaming video and/or audio while landed. Operators are also able to pilot up to 4 drone units from a singular console.

If you are looking for drone with a large operational distance, search no further than the WingtraOne PPK VTOL – fixed wing. This drone works seamlessly with PIX4D mapper and has a 10km transmission range. It takes off like a helicopter and flies like a regular fixed-wing aircraft once airborne. This VTOL can map almost 2x quicker than a conventional fixed wing drone and between 10 to 14x quicker than multi-copter drones.

It is the perfect drone for collecting data on mission perimeters, giving users the information needed to effectively plan for or evaluate missions.

Generally you will find that most drone payloads are either cameras or sensors, however companies such as Typhon are revolutionising drone payloads for military use.

Typhon are a UK based company with a focus on creating non-lethal, reloadable distraction devices that negate the risks associated with conventional pyrotechnic devices. The SH-100 distraction payload is fully integrated into the Sky-Hero LOKI MK2 platform. The fully integrated GCS software allows for operator selection of single event or burst initiation of the Typhon distraction cartridge to provide maximum operational flexibility.