World’s smallest autopilot tech turns drones into precise war machines

Source: interestingengineering
Author: @IntEngineering
Published: 2/12/2026
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Read original articleLondon Defence R&D has developed the Raptor Pilot AI Pro, the world’s smallest unified autopilot system designed to convert any unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into a highly precise, intelligent munition. Weighing just 100 grams and powered by a quad-core 2.4 GHz CPU, this autopilot integrates AI and vision-based processing to autonomously detect and track targets in real-time via high-definition video streaming. It supports a broad range of UAV platforms—including loitering munitions, fixed-wing, and hybrid drones—and operates effectively even when satellite signals are weak by fusing visual and inertial sensor data. The system’s flight control relies on an STM32F405 controller, enabling precise attitude and altitude management for autonomous maneuvers.
The Raptor Pilot AI Pro underpins London Defence R&D’s “Baby Raptor” and “Raptor XL” interceptor drones, emphasizing rapid, autonomous responses to evolving aerial threats. The company highlights that AI-driven tracking and real
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robotdrone-technologyautopilot-systemsAI-in-roboticsunmanned-aerial-vehiclesautonomous-flightdefense-technology