Articles tagged with "drone"
Russia turns civilian planes into drone hunters using WWII-era guns
Russia has adapted civilian Cessna 172 aircraft into airborne drone hunters by mounting Soviet-era PKT machine guns, originally designed for armored vehicles, along with fire-control targeting systems. These modified planes, operated by a two-person crew, patrol vulnerable regions to intercept slow-moving Ukrainian drones that have increasingly penetrated Russian airspace. The initiative is part of a broader, nationwide network of improvised counter-drone efforts aimed at supplementing Russia’s conventional air defenses, which have struggled to economically and effectively counter the persistent long-range UAV attacks on critical infrastructure such as oil depots and military bases. This unconventional tactic mirrors similar strategies employed by Ukraine, which has used small civilian aircraft for rapid drone detection and response. The use of lightweight, low-cost aircraft like the Cessna 172 reflects the resource strain on Russia’s traditional air defense systems and highlights a shift toward distributed, economical solutions in drone warfare. While Russian state media presents this program as a sign of innovation and resilience, independent analysts question its effectiveness
droneUAVcounter-drone-technologyair-defensemilitary-roboticstargeting-systemsunmanned-aerial-vehiclesWorld’s smallest FPV drone weighs just 25 grams but still flies
YouTuber Hoarder Sam has developed the world’s smallest first-person view (FPV) drone, weighing just 25 grams and fitting inside a Pringles can. This ultra-compact quadcopter challenges the widely accepted 65 mm minimum size for stable micro drone flight by reconfiguring the internal electronics of the BetaFPV Air65 into a dramatically smaller frame. Inspired by the “bone drone” design, which features overlapping propellers on each end, Sam’s drone achieves a hub-to-hub size of only 22 mm. The build required meticulous soldering and wiring adjustments, as well as customized firmware tuning via Betaflight Configurator to maintain flight stability. Despite its tiny size, the drone performs impressively, offering agility and control close to the larger Air65 model. It can hover steadily, make tight turns, and respond precisely to controls, with an average flight time of about two and a half minutes—only slightly less than the larger drone despite its smaller battery and motors
robotdroneFPVmicro-dronedrone-engineeringminiaturizationflight-stabilityLockheed’s new drone can take off like helicopter, cruise like jet
Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky division has introduced the Nomad family of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones, featuring a twin-proprotor design that combines helicopter-like vertical agility with the speed and range of fixed-wing aircraft. This scalable drone series can be tailored from small Group 3 UAS to sizes comparable to a Black Hawk helicopter, enabling runway-independent operations for diverse missions including reconnaissance, light attack, contested logistics, and humanitarian aid. The Nomad drones are designed to operate alongside crewed aircraft to enhance situational awareness, logistics, and strike capabilities, particularly in challenging environments like the Indo-Pacific region. The Nomad family incorporates Sikorsky’s MATRIX autonomy technology, developed with DARPA, which enables autonomous route planning, obstacle avoidance, and mission execution. The initial Nomad 50 prototype, with a 10.3-foot wingspan, demonstrated strong aerodynamic performance and vertical lift in 2025 flight tests, and a larger Nomad 100 variant is expected to
robotdroneautonomous-aircraftVTOLhybrid-electricaerospace-technologymilitary-technologyFormer Google CEO Will Fund Boat Drones to Explore Rough Antarctic Waters
A foundation established by the former Google CEO is funding a five-year project deploying four uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), or drone boats, to explore the challenging waters of the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. This region plays a critical role as one of the world’s largest carbon sinks, absorbing a significant portion of ocean-based carbon dioxide, yet it remains poorly understood due to extreme weather conditions, rough seas, and limited scientific data. The Southern Ocean’s harsh environment, especially in the Drake Passage, makes traditional crewed research difficult, and satellite observations are hindered by persistent cloud cover. The USVs will operate remotely, continuously collecting sophisticated measurements of the partial pressure of CO2 in the water, providing deeper insight into the ocean carbon cycle than previous unmanned efforts. Using machine learning, the drones’ routes will be dynamically adjusted to optimize data collection in areas beyond commercial shipping lanes, including during the winter months when data is especially scarce. The collected data will be publicly available, aiming to improve climate models
robotdroneautonomous-vesselsocean-explorationenvironmental-monitoringclimate-scienceremote-sensingUS Army tests 75-pound drone that strikes targets like a missile
The US Army recently conducted its first live-fire test of the Switchblade 600 loitering munition system with the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Cavazos, Texas. The Switchblade 600 is a tube-launched, unmanned aerial system approximately 5 feet long and weighing 75 pounds, equipped with a Javelin multipurpose warhead. It can fly up to 27 miles, loiter for 40 to 45 minutes, and deliver a 5-pound explosive payload with precision. Unlike traditional drones, it functions as a remote-controlled missile that can be redirected mid-flight, allowing operators to identify, select, and engage targets while minimizing collateral damage and enhancing soldier safety. Previously used primarily by Special Operations Forces and light infantry, the Switchblade 600 is now being integrated into armored formations as part of the Army’s “Transforming in Contact” initiative, which aims to modernize combat tactics by incorporating advanced drone technologies and communications. Soldiers trained intensively with the system
droneunmanned-aerial-systemmilitary-technologyroboticsprecision-strikedefense-technologyautonomous-weaponsVideo: YouTuber makes full-scale DeLorean fly for real in crazy test
YouTuber Brian Brocken has successfully made a full-scale DeLorean prop fly in a three-part video series, culminating in tethered and free flights after extensive iterative development. The project began with building a foam body closely matching the digital design’s mass and progressed through testing on an aluminium test frame, which proved too heavy and flexible. Brocken then fabricated a much lighter and stiffer carbon-fibre frame, reducing weight from around 8–9 kg to approximately 2 kg, which significantly improved flight control and rigidity. The build relied on eight powerful MP8318 100 kV motors with 30-inch propellers, providing thrust margins sufficient for takeoff and maneuvering. Initial tests revealed torsional issues with the aluminium frame during yaw maneuvers, which were resolved by switching to the carbon-fibre frame and retuning the PID control loops. Brocken also engineered practical mechanical solutions, such as a flap system to conceal propellers during non-flight and custom 3D-printed
robotdronecarbon-fiberflight-testelectric-motorspropellerscontrol-systemsWoodpecker-inspired drone endures 70% head-on collisions impact
Researchers at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have developed a fixed-wing drone named SWIFT (Shockproof Woodpecker-Inspired Flying Tensegrity) that significantly improves collision resilience by mimicking the unique skull structure of woodpeckers. Woodpeckers endure repeated high-impact pecking without brain injury due to a combination of a rigid beak, a flexible hyoid bone wrapping around the skull, a spongy bone layer, and extra space around the brain that redirects impact forces. SWIFT replicates these features using tensegrity structures composed of carbon fiber rods, elastic cables, and plastic brackets to protect its electronic components, motor, and propeller by allowing them to move and absorb collision energy rather than transferring it directly. Beyond the fuselage, SWIFT’s wings incorporate a network of elastic cables and carbon fiber rods inspired by the shock-absorbing connective tissues in bird wing joints, reducing the risk of wing damage during impacts
robotdronebiomimicrycarbon-fibercollision-resilienceaerial-roboticstensegrity-structures'World’s first' ship-based stealth drone may be deployed by China
China has unveiled the GJ-11 "Sharp Sword," which it claims to be the world’s first ship-launched stealth combat drone. Developed by Hongdu Aviation Industry Group under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the drone evolved from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation’s Sharp Sword project. Featuring a flying wing design and a fully blended body, the GJ-11 boasts low radar cross-section visibility enhanced by a specialized stealth coating. Measuring about 10 meters long with a 14-meter wingspan, it is powered by a turbofan engine capable of speeds up to 690 mph (1,111 km/h) and can carry a payload of up to 2,000 kg. Its design includes folding hinges to facilitate storage on aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The GJ-11 is equipped with two internal weapons bays for guided bombs and can perform both strike and reconnaissance missions using multiple sensors. A notable capability is its function as a "loyal wingman," autonom
robotdronestealth-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologyautonomous-systemsaerospace-materialsTaiwan eyes drone that helped Ukraine hunt Russian S-400, $2.5B assets
Taiwan is exploring local production of the European-made Tekever AR3 drone, which has played a significant role in Ukraine’s military efforts by aiding in the destruction of nearly $2.5 billion worth of Russian assets, including the advanced S-400 air defense system. The partnership between Portugal-based Tekever and Taiwan’s Apex Aviation was announced at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition in September 2025. The AR3 drone is a medium-sized, AI-driven unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with modular payloads such as synthetic aperture radar and infrared sensors, capable of extended missions including intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR). It has logged over 10,000 combat flight hours and is also used by the UK military for electronic warfare. The AR3 drone features a compact fixed-wing design with up to 16 hours of endurance and an optional beyond-line-of-sight datalink, making it suitable for maritime and land operations. A vertical takeoff and landing
droneautonomous-systemsUAVdefense-technologyAI-drivensurveillanceVTOLStudents build Bond-style micro pocket drone that flies instantly
Students at Texas A&M University’s Advanced Vertical Flight Laboratory have developed a groundbreaking micro air vehicle (MAV) weighing just 112 grams that folds to smartphone size and unfolds midair to stabilize itself within seconds. This pocket-sized drone features foldable propeller arms that extend and lock automatically when thrown, enabling it to recover from extreme spins—up to 2,500 degrees per second—and hover smoothly. Its stability is achieved through an advanced onboard feedback controller that uses sensors and algorithms to detect orientation and adjust propeller speeds in real time, allowing immediate flight readiness without careful handling or controlled takeoff. The design balances portability, strength, and performance, supported by a sophisticated six degrees of freedom (6DOF) flight dynamics model validated with real-world motion tracking data. This rigorous testing ensures reliable operation even under unpredictable launch conditions. The MAV’s compactness and rapid deployment make it ideal for practical applications such as emergency response, where first responders could quickly launch drones into hazardous zones for damage assessment or survivor
robotdronemicro-air-vehiclesensorsflight-controlstabilizationaerospace-engineeringUS military gains fully electric drone ready for immediate flight ops
Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s fully electric K1000ULE unmanned aerial system (UAS) has been officially added to the US Department of Defense’s Blue UAS Cleared and Select Lists, confirming it as a secure, NDAA-compliant drone approved for immediate procurement and deployment. The K1000ULE sets new benchmarks in its category for endurance and range, operating without fuel and requiring minimal logistics. It can be rapidly deployed from its container to flight-ready status in about 10 minutes, making it highly suitable for sustained operations in contested environments. The drone has passed an independent cybersecurity assessment with zero vulnerabilities and received an Authority to Operate (ATO), underscoring its reliability and security for military missions. Equipped with AI-driven capabilities, the K1000ULE integrates seamlessly across multiple domains and supports complex operational challenges. It is runway-independent, capable of carrying multiple payloads, and functions as an autonomous communications gateway, extending and bridging tactical data links to support frameworks like JADC2
droneelectric-propulsionunmanned-aerial-systemmilitary-technologyautonomous-systemsAI-driven-capabilitiesenergy-efficient-roboticsRobotican unveils drone with cage-like body that rolls and flies
Israeli defense firm Robotican has introduced an armed version of its ROOSTER hybrid drone, a cage-like unmanned aerial system capable of both rolling on the ground and flying. Previously used primarily for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, the upgraded ROOSTER now carries a 300-gram precision-guided warhead, enabling it to perform surgical strikes in confined urban and subterranean environments such as buildings and tunnels. The drone’s protective cage design allows it to navigate stairs and narrow corridors, while rotors provide flight capability to overcome obstacles, giving operators enhanced access and strike readiness in complex terrain. Equipped with artificial intelligence for object detection, autonomous target tracking, and locking, the ROOSTER allows operators to designate targets for automatic engagement. Safety mechanisms prevent unintended activation, minimizing risks to friendly forces and civilians. Weighing 1.6 kilograms and capable of carrying various modular payloads—including spectral and thermal cameras, oxygen and radiation sensors—the drone offers up to 30 minutes of rolling endurance
robotdroneAIautonomous-systemsmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesurveillanceChina tests vertical takeoff drone resembling US Navy's 'Gimbal' UFO
Chinese researchers at Zhengzhou University of Aeronautics have successfully tested a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone whose design closely resembles the spindle-shaped UFO recorded by the US Navy in the 2015 "Gimbal" incident. This experimental drone features an elliptical, closed-loop wing with a straight central section and vertical stabilizers, diverging from traditional quadcopter or fixed-wing designs. Four rotors mounted at wing junctions enable vertical lift and stability during transitions to forward flight. The hybrid design aims to combine the hovering and landing flexibility of multirotor drones with the range and efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft, addressing a longstanding trade-off in UAV performance. Test flights and simulations demonstrated that the drone’s elliptical wing generates more than twice the lift slope of conventional straight wings, allowing stable flight at low speeds and high angles of attack. The aircraft is modular, capable of carrying various payloads such as sensors, supply pods, and emergency equipment, making it suitable for military surveillance, maritime reconnaissance
robotdroneVTOLaerospace-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesurveillancehybrid-wing-designChina's flying-wing stealth drone rivals B-2 in scale in leaked images
Leaked images circulating on social media reveal a new Chinese flying-wing drone that closely rivals the American B-2 Spirit bomber in scale, with an estimated wingspan of about 170 feet (52 meters), nearly matching the B-2’s 172 feet. The drone’s design features, such as split rudders and clipped wingtips, resemble both the B-2 and the newer B-21, though its exact identity remains unclear due to the low resolution and unknown origin of the image. Analysts speculate it could be a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) stealth reconnaissance drone rather than a bomber, intended for penetrating surveillance and intelligence gathering. It may correspond to a previously spotted large drone nicknamed WZ-X at China’s Malan test base, a relatively new facility with hangars similar to those housing U.S. stealth bombers. The drone’s configuration, including possible twin-engine exhaust nozzles, remains uncertain, and there are no visible signs of a cockpit,
robotdronestealth-technologyaerospacereconnaissancemilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehicleUS firm builds Iran's Shahed-like drone with 100-pound payload power
Griffon Aerospace, an Alabama-based US drone manufacturer, has unveiled the MQM-172 Arrowhead, an unmanned aircraft system designed with a dual-role capability. The Arrowhead serves primarily as a high-performance target drone for military training but can also be configured as a kamikaze-style strike drone, similar in appearance to Iran’s Shahed suicide drone. It features a modular payload bay capable of carrying up to 100 pounds, allowing it to be equipped with various sensors or warheads depending on mission requirements. The drone’s maneuverable and durable airframe reflects Griffon’s emphasis on reliable, multi-mission unmanned systems, developed entirely in-house after extensive testing. This new platform addresses the growing demand for versatile, affordable drones that can be rapidly deployed for both training and operational combat missions. The Arrowhead’s dual-use design enhances Griffon Aerospace’s competitive position in the US drone market and may appeal to domestic and international buyers. Its introduction aligns with a global trend toward increased reliance on
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-systemmilitary-technologypayloadmodular-designaerospaceChina's 'scissor wing' project could revive hypersonic drone concept
Chinese engineers are revisiting the oblique wing aircraft concept, originally developed in the 1940s, which features a single wing that pivots around the fuselage like a scissor blade. This design allows the wing to be perpendicular at low speeds for takeoff and landing, then rotate to align with the fuselage at high speeds, reducing drag and enabling hypersonic flight. Unlike previous variable-sweep wing aircraft like the F-14, the oblique wing uses a simpler mechanism involving just one wing. However, past attempts, such as NASA’s 1970s AD-1, faced significant stability and control challenges. To overcome these issues, the Chinese project incorporates advanced technologies including supercomputers, artificial intelligence for airflow modeling, smart materials, and sensors to manage structural stresses. The design also uses canards, tailplanes, and active control surfaces to maintain stability during wing movement. The aircraft aims to serve as a hypersonic “mother ship” drone carrier capable of Mach
robotdronehypersonic-technologysmart-materialssensorsartificial-intelligenceaerospace-engineeringKARGO II: New VTOL drone can deliver 1,500 pounds of military goods
Piasecki Aircraft Corporation, a Pennsylvania-based firm, has introduced the KARGO II, an advanced vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone capable of autonomously delivering over 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms) of military cargo in a single flight. This payload capacity doubles that of its predecessor, the KARGO UAV, which could carry between 500 to 800 pounds. Designed for both military and commercial applications, KARGO II offers enhanced range, airspeed, and mission flexibility, enabling operations in contested and remote environments. It can deliver payloads with high precision using various methods, including hard-mounted pods like the Joint Modular Intermodal Container (JMIC), aerial delivery, or external long line, and can be deployed rapidly from a standard 20-foot cargo container. The drone incorporates a new optimized shaft-driven transmission and larger rotors to support its improved performance. Developed through a spiral approach building on successful flight tests and demonstrations under U.S. Army and Marine Corps contracts, KARGO
robotdroneautonomous-logisticsVTOLunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologyaerospace-materialsChina unveils ‘world’s first’ jet-powered vertical landing drone for warships
China has unveiled what it claims to be the world’s first jet-powered vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone designed for deployment from warships without the need for runways. Developed over a decade by aerospace engineers at Beihang University starting in 2015, the drone combines small rotors for vertical lift with a turbojet engine for high-speed cruise flight. A patented retractable fairing system encloses the rotors during forward flight, reducing drag by up to 60%, enabling speeds up to 142 mph as demonstrated in tests. The composite airframe, made from advanced carbon fiber materials, is built to withstand harsh maritime conditions and repeated deck landings, while heat shielding protects the drone from jet exhaust temperatures exceeding 1,292°F. This VTOL drone is intended to operate from a variety of Chinese naval vessels—including destroyers, frigates, and amphibious ships—effectively turning them into forward-operating bases capable of launching reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or light strike
robotdronevertical-takeoff-and-landingjet-powered-dronecomposite-materialsaerospace-engineeringmilitary-technologyDrone with Boeing 747-sized wingspan flies for 74 hours on solar power
US aerospace startup Skydweller Aero has achieved a major milestone by flying its solar-powered drone, with a wingspan larger than a Boeing 747, continuously for up to 74 hours using only sunlight and battery power. The drone’s carbon fiber airframe supports 17,000 solar cells generating up to 100 kW, which power four propellers and onboard systems during the day while charging a 1,400-pound battery that sustains flight overnight. Across four recent flights, the aircraft accumulated 222 hours in the air, demonstrating endurance and resilience. The US Navy’s Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division is evaluating the drone for long-duration intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Skydweller Aero aims for “perpetual” uncrewed flight lasting 30 to 90 days or more, requiring landings only for maintenance rather than refueling. The drone can carry payloads up to 881 pounds (400 kg), a significant improvement over previous solar UAV
dronesolar-powerenergycarbon-fiberUAVlong-duration-flightrenewable-energyTurkey's TALAY Drone: World's First Sea-Skimming UAV
Turkey has developed the TALAY, the world's first sea-skimming unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), reviving the Cold War-era concept of the ekranoplan. This innovative drone flies just meters above the sea surface, enabling it to evade radar detection and enhance stealth capabilities in naval operations. By combining modern AI technology with the ekranoplan's unique design, the TALAY represents a significant advancement in maritime warfare. The TALAY’s ability to operate at low altitudes over water allows it to avoid conventional radar systems, making it a formidable asset for surveillance, reconnaissance, and potentially offensive missions. Drawing inspiration from Soviet-era "Sea Monsters," Turkey’s adaptation modernizes this concept, potentially altering naval strategies and the balance of power in maritime domains. This development underscores Turkey’s growing emphasis on integrating AI and unmanned systems into its military arsenal.
robotdroneUAVmilitary-technologystealth-technologyAI-warfarenaval-warfareVideo: China claims first drone hunt of ‘hostile warship’
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China has released rare footage showcasing its use of advanced reconnaissance drones, specifically the WZ-7 and WZ-10, in tracking a “hostile warship.” The video, part of the PLA’s documentary Forging Ahead, depicts a coordinated mission where the WZ-10 conducts initial electronic reconnaissance and imagery transmission, while the larger WZ-7 drone performs detailed inspection and verification of suspicious objects identified as foreign vessels. The operation concludes with simulated missile strike preparations, highlighting the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles with joint-service intelligence and missile systems. The brigade involved regularly conducts reconnaissance missions over the western Pacific to enhance its surveillance capabilities. The WZ-7, known as “Soaring Dragon,” is one of the world’s largest and most capable reconnaissance drones, comparable to the US RQ-4 Global Hawk but reportedly able to fly higher and faster. It features a distinctive dual-wing design and is equipped with advanced radar, infrared, and optical
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-vehiclereconnaissancemilitary-technologysurveillanceartificial-intelligenceTiny maple seed-inspired drone flies for 26 minutes with one rotor
Researchers at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), led by Associate Professor Foong Shaohui, have developed a tiny monocopter drone inspired by the natural flight mechanics of maple tree seeds (samaras). This lightweight, 32-gram drone, named SG60, achieves fully controllable, autonomous flight for 26 minutes using a single rotor, setting a new endurance record for drones of its size. Unlike its predecessor, the larger and more complex SG50 multi-rotor drone, the SG60 employs a simple, efficient design that generates lift through a spinning winged body, leveraging passive stability and aerodynamic principles observed in nature. The drone’s design was optimized through a data-driven process that fine-tuned wing shape, pitch, and mass distribution, resulting in a power loading of 9.1 grams per watt—outperforming similar micro air vehicles. Its simplicity, long flight time, and low weight make it suitable for cost-effective, long-duration missions such as
droneroboticsautonomous-flightbiomimicryaerodynamicsmicro-air-vehiclesenergy-efficiencyWorld's first sea-skimming drone can hit enemies at 124 mph speed
An Ankara-based company, Solid Aero, has unveiled TALAY, the world’s first sea-skimming multipurpose drone capable of flying just 9.8 feet above the sea surface at speeds up to 124 mph. Designed to operate stealthily beneath typical radar horizons, TALAY utilizes the ground effect phenomenon as an ekranoplan (Wing-in-Ground vehicle) to achieve lift and agility. The autonomous drone can carry up to 66 pounds of sensors or munitions, with an endurance of about three hours and the ability to operate in challenging sea state three conditions. Its compact design features foldable wings, a low radar cross-section, and an electric propulsion system powered by a Li-Po battery, enabling silent and swift mission engagement over a communication range of 124 miles. TALAY is optimized for maritime and coastal missions, capable of performing patrol, reconnaissance, strike, or cargo tasks with advanced AI-powered flight control software and preloaded coordinates for precision. It can conduct harbor attacks and target
robotdroneautonomous-systemsAI-poweredelectric-propulsionmaritime-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehicleChina’s new mystery stealth jet's flight sets social media on fire
Leaked images and video circulating on Chinese social media have sparked intense speculation about a new, mysterious tailless aircraft believed to be an advanced stealth design. The aircraft features a sharply pointed nose blending into delta wings, twin-engine intakes, no vertical stabilizers, and a heavy-duty tricycle landing gear, suggesting a conventional or carrier-capable weight class. Its lack of a visible cockpit raises the possibility that it is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone, potentially part of China’s ongoing development of autonomous “loyal wingman” stealth drones, such as the GJ-11 “Sharp Sword” or FH-97 series, which are comparable to U.S. programs like the Valkyrie and Ghost Bat. Experts remain cautious about the aircraft’s exact role or classification, with theories ranging from it being a next-generation fighter or bomber to a carrier-optimized platform or a Chengdu-developed counterpart to the J-36 stealth fighter. The design shares some similarities with existing Chinese
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-vehiclestealth-technologyautonomous-systemsmilitary-technologyaerospace-engineeringJapan team builds falcon-like drone that lands softly on your palm
Researchers at the University of Tokyo’s DRAGON Lab have developed a falcon-inspired flapping-wing drone capable of safely landing on a person’s palm without cushions. Unlike traditional propeller drones, this drone uses soft, flexible wings that mimic bird flight, resulting in quieter operation and a gentler presence ideal for close human interaction. The design is inspired by falconry and represents the first successful contact-based interaction between a flapping-wing drone and a human, emphasizing safety through careful flight planning that accounts for physical and psychological factors such as distance, altitude, approach direction, and velocity. The drone maintains a minimum distance of 0.3 meters from the user’s chest, slows down as it approaches, and stays within a comfortable altitude range between the elbow and eye level. It is controlled through intuitive hand gestures—bending the arm signals the drone to hover, while extending the arm commands it to approach and land. A sophisticated motion capture system with multiple cameras tracks markers on the user and drone, enabling
robotdroneflapping-wing-dronehuman-robot-interactiongesture-controlmotion-planningsafe-landingWorld's first two-ton VTOL drone completes cargo delivery in China
China has achieved a significant milestone by completing the world’s first offshore cargo delivery using a two-ton electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) drone, the V2000CG CarryAll. Developed by Shanghai-based Autoflight, this unmanned aircraft transported fresh fruit and emergency medical supplies 150 kilometers over open water from Shenzhen to a China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) platform in just 58 minutes. The all-electric drone combines helicopter-style vertical lift with fixed-wing cruise efficiency, carrying up to 400 kilograms at speeds of about 124 miles per hour and covering distances up to 124 miles on a single charge, all while producing zero in-flight emissions. This innovation drastically reduces offshore supply transit times from over 10 hours by boat to approximately one hour, offering lower operating costs, faster response times, and the ability to land in confined spaces. The V2000CG’s successful mission and recent certification mark a key step in China’s push to commercialize large-scale
droneeVTOLelectric-aircraftcargo-deliveryoffshore-logisticsautonomous-flightenergy-efficient-transportationTurkey revives the Ekranoplan as a smart, sea-skimming drone
Turkey has revived the Soviet-era wing-in-ground-effect (WIG) vehicle concept with its new TALAY drone, developed by SolidAERO. Unlike the massive, manned Ekranoplans of the Cold War, TALAY is a compact, unmanned, AI-driven sea-skimming drone designed for multi-role missions including reconnaissance, strike, and cargo delivery. It flies just 3 meters above the sea surface—below most coastal radar detection—can cover 200 km at speeds up to 200 kph, and carries a payload of 30 kg. Its modular design and foldable wings enable rapid deployment and versatile use in various maritime operations. The TALAY represents a doctrinal shift in naval warfare, emphasizing swarming tactics of low-cost, radar-evading drones to overwhelm enemy defenses rather than relying on fewer, larger missiles. This approach could pose a significant threat to both small inshore vessels and larger warships by saturating their defenses with multiple semi-autonomous attackers. Turkey
robotdroneAIunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologysea-skimmingautonomous-flightWatch: Student‑built 3D-printed drone flies, dives, and swims
A team of applied industrial electronics students at Aalborg University in Denmark has developed a 3D-printed hybrid drone capable of flying, diving underwater, maneuvering beneath the surface, and resurfacing rapidly in a seamless sequence. Central to this capability is a variable pitch propeller system that adjusts blade angles for optimal performance in air and water—higher pitch for flight to generate airflow, and lower pitch underwater to reduce drag and improve efficiency. These propellers also provide negative thrust for precise underwater control. The drone’s smooth transitions between air and water, captured in continuous video footage, highlight the effectiveness of this straightforward propeller-based approach. The prototype was designed, fabricated using 3D printing and CNC machining, and programmed by the students over two academic semesters under the guidance of associate professor Petar Durdevic. While hybrid drones are not entirely new, this project stands out for its polished demonstration of rapid, repeatable air-to-water transitions without complex mechanical reconfigurations. The students envision applications in military
robotdrone3D-printinghybrid-dronevariable-pitch-propellersunderwater-roboticsaerial-roboticsChina claims to fix design flaw that doomed US X-47B stealth drone
Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre, led by Huang Jiangtao, claim to have overcome a critical design bottleneck in stealth aircraft development by creating a new software platform that efficiently optimizes hundreds of aerodynamic and stealth parameters simultaneously. Demonstrated on the US Navy’s X-47B stealth drone—a program previously canceled due to unresolved trade-offs among stealth, aerodynamics, and propulsion—the software optimized 740 variables at once, achieving significant improvements without the exponential increase in computational cost typically associated with such complexity. Their method, published in Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica, uses a geometric sensitivity computation approach that decouples gradient calculation costs from the number of design variables, enabling full-scale aerodynamic and stealth optimization including radar-absorbent materials. This breakthrough addresses the longstanding “curse of dimensionality” in aircraft design, where increasing parameters traditionally force engineers to simplify or compromise. Instead of relying on brute-force computing power, the team employed a “DeepSeek-style
robotdronestealth-technologyaerodynamic-optimizationradar-absorbent-materialscomputational-designaerospace-engineeringChina Announces New Micro-Drone
The article reports that China has unveiled a new micro-drone roughly the size of a mosquito, highlighting concerns about surveillance and privacy. While specific technical details such as flight range, sensory capabilities, and operational uses remain unclear or undisclosed, the drone's extremely small size suggests potential for covert monitoring. The announcement underscores China's advancing drone technology and raises questions about the implications for security and personal privacy. However, due to the limited information provided, the full extent of the drone's capabilities and intended applications is not yet known.
robotdronemicro-dronesurveillance-technologyroboticsunmanned-aerial-vehicleChina-technologyFormula 1–engineered kamikaze drone strikes targets 155 miles away
MGI Engineering, a British company with Formula 1 engineering roots, has unveiled SkyShark, a next-generation kamikaze drone platform designed for intelligence, strike, and decoy missions. Demonstrated at Enstone Airfield in Oxfordshire, SkyShark can reach speeds exceeding 280 mph (450 kph), strike targets up to 155 miles (250 kilometers) away, and carry a 44-pound (20-kilogram) warhead. It features terrain contour matching (TERCOM) navigation, enabling operations in GPS-denied or jammed environments. The drone comes in two variants: one powered by a gas turbine engine developed by UK-based Argive Ltd for high-thrust tactical missions, and another using an electric ducted fan engine from Greenjets designed for stealthy, low-signature operations. Both versions emphasize British innovation and sovereignty, with all design, manufacturing, and testing conducted domestically to avoid reliance on foreign suppliers. The gas turbine variant offers high performance suited for
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-systemmilitary-technologypropulsion-systemselectric-ducted-fangas-turbine-engineChina mirrors US' alien ship-like surveillance drone design
China has unveiled a new tail-sitter drone developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAIG), a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). This drone, showcased during a disaster response exercise in Sichuan province, features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities similar to the US military’s V-BAT drone, which it closely resembles in size and design. Powered by a single ducted fan engine, the drone can launch like a rocket, transition to horizontal flight, and land on its tail, enabling operations in rugged or remote areas without the need for runways. Its modular payload system supports various reconnaissance tools, including cameras and sensors, and can be adapted for different missions such as disaster relief. The drone is integrated with CAIG’s Wenyao control system, which employs artificial intelligence to automate flight planning, obstacle avoidance, and swarm coordination. This system allows for autonomous control of multiple drones simultaneously, facilitating drone swarming without human intervention. AVIC highlights the UAV’s affordability,
dronesurveillanceautonomous-systemsartificial-intelligenceroboticsUAVdisaster-responseMan-Piloted Drone's First Flight
The Jetson One, a man-piloted drone classified as an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, has successfully completed its first test flight. Designed to operate in challenging terrains, this innovative aircraft aims to assist in mountain rescue operations where conventional vehicles face significant limitations. Its ability to take off and land vertically allows it to access remote and difficult locations quickly and efficiently. The Jetson One represents a significant advancement in rescue technology by combining the maneuverability of drones with the capacity to carry a human pilot. This development could enhance emergency response times and improve the safety and effectiveness of mountain rescue missions. Further testing and refinement are expected as the Jetson One moves toward broader operational use.
robotdroneeVTOLmanned-droneaerial-rescueautonomous-flightaviation-technologyUS startup builds 330-pound car-like jet drone that flies at 225 mph
Texas-based startup FusionFlight has developed the Axion, a compact, jet-powered VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft that weighs 330 pounds and can reach speeds up to 225 mph. Unlike typical VTOLs that use electric motors and propellers, the Axion employs eight vectored-thrust micro-turbine jet engines fueled by diesel, kerosene, or jet-A. This setup generates 809 lb-ft of thrust, enabling vertical lift-off, agile maneuvering, and the ability to carry a single passenger or 176 pounds of cargo. The Axion offers about 15 minutes of flight time per refuel and can operate reliably in extreme weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, without performance loss. The Axion can be piloted manually via fly-by-wire joysticks or autonomously through a touchscreen interface, with remote operation also possible for unmanned missions such as emergency supply delivery or medical evacuations. It builds on FusionFlight’s earlier AB6 JetQuad drone
droneVTOLjet-enginesautonomous-flightmicro-turbineaviation-technologyelectric-aircraft-alternativeRussian drone hunts like a predator with Nvidia supercomputer’s help
Russia has developed an advanced autonomous drone, the MS001, powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin supercomputer, marking a significant shift in modern warfare. Unlike traditional drones that rely on pre-set coordinates or external commands, the MS001 independently processes thermal imaging, object recognition, and telemetry to detect, prioritize, and engage targets in real time—even under GPS jamming or electronic warfare conditions. Equipped with sophisticated onboard systems such as a spoof-resistant GPS module, adaptive logic chips, and swarm communication capabilities, the drone operates as a “digital predator” capable of coordinated swarm behavior and dynamic target selection, posing a serious challenge to existing air defense doctrines. This technological leap aligns with Russia’s strategic shift since early 2024 toward using UAVs for deep interdiction strikes against critical infrastructure and logistics far behind the front lines, aiming to disrupt Ukraine’s military and civilian systems. Despite U.S. sanctions banning advanced chip exports to Russia, Nvidia components continue to reach Russian forces via gray-market smuggling routes, enabling
robotdroneartificial-intelligenceautonomous-systemsNvidia-Jetson-OrinUAVelectronic-warfareDJI’s new cargo drone charges in 9 minutes, hauls 80 kg with ease
DJI has unveiled the FlyCart 100 (FC100), its most powerful heavy-lift drone designed for industrial and logistical applications such as disaster relief, infrastructure delivery, and last-mile transport. The FC100 can carry an impressive payload of up to 80 kilograms on a single battery and 65 kilograms with dual batteries, representing a 60% increase in takeoff weight compared to its predecessor, the FlyCart 30. It features a robust design with 62-inch carbon-fiber propellers arranged in a coaxial dual-rotor setup, enabling stable flight in harsh conditions including high altitude (up to 6,000 meters), wind, rain, and cold. The drone can travel 6 kilometers fully loaded on one battery, 12 kilometers with two batteries, and up to 26 kilometers without payload. The drone incorporates advanced technology for operational efficiency and safety, including a 30-meter winch for precise cargo delivery, hot-swappable DB2160 batteries that can be fully re
droneheavy-lift-dronefast-charging-batterycarbon-fiber-propellersindustrial-logisticsautonomous-droneaerial-deliveryChina planning drone with robotic arm for Mars sample hunt, eyeing bio-safety
China’s Tianwen-3 mission, planned for launch in 2028 atop two Long March 5B rockets, aims to return Martian soil and rock samples to Earth by 2031, collecting at least 500 grams of material. A key innovation in this mission is the deployment of an uncrewed helicopter drone equipped with a robotic arm and claw, designed to fly up to 100 meters from the lander to retrieve larger, scientifically valuable rocks that may contain biosignatures. The lander itself will use a robotic arm to scoop surface material and a drill capable of extracting samples from depths of up to 2 meters, targeting areas potentially shielded from harsh surface radiation. This approach enhances sample diversity from a single landing site and marks China’s first use of a drone in planetary exploration. Given the mission’s focus on searching for signs of past or present life on Mars, the Chinese team is prioritizing bio-safety and planetary protection. They are developing a comprehensive sample preservation and analysis
robotdroneMars-explorationrobotic-armspace-technologyplanetary-protectionaerospace-engineeringVoliro brings in $23M to accelerate inspection drone development - The Robot Report
Voliro, a Swiss aerial robotics company, has raised an additional $11 million in its Series A funding round, bringing the total to $23 million. This capital injection aims to accelerate the development and global deployment of Voliro’s autonomous aerial inspection robots, designed to modernize infrastructure maintenance, improve industrial safety, and address workforce shortages in inspection fields. The company’s flagship product, the Voliro T platform, features a patented tiltable-rotor design and interchangeable sensor payloads, enabling scalable, data-driven inspections of hard-to-reach industrial assets such as flare stacks, storage tanks, wind turbine blades, and transmission towers. Voliro’s technology targets aging infrastructure, where traditional inspection methods are costly, infrequent, and risky. By enabling faster, safer, and more frequent inspections—such as performing wind turbine lightning protection system checks up to five times faster—Voliro helps reduce downtime and inspection costs by up to 50%. The company has established a global footprint with over 40 customers in
robotdroneaerial-roboticsindustrial-inspectionenergy-transitionwind-turbine-maintenanceautomationChinese military unveils mosquito-sized drones for battlefield missions
China’s National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) has developed a mosquito-sized drone designed primarily for covert military operations such as surveillance and reconnaissance in complex or sensitive environments. The drone mimics insect flight with two flapping leaflike wings and features three hair-thin legs for perching or landing, enabling it to operate discreetly in urban combat, search and rescue, or electronic surveillance scenarios. Its extremely compact size and advanced integration of power systems, control electronics, and sensors make it difficult to detect, though miniaturizing these components presents significant engineering challenges. This development reflects a broader global trend toward micro-UAVs, with countries like the U.S. and Norway also investing in similar technologies. For instance, Norway’s “Black Hornet” microdrone is already in use for close-range scouting, and its latest version boasts improved durability, range, and battery life. Beyond military uses, microdrones hold promise in various civilian fields, including medical applications like surgery and drug delivery, as
robotdronemicro-UAVmilitary-technologysurveillancereconnaissanceminiaturizationSolar drone with Boeing 747 wingspan promises month-long flights
The article discusses a groundbreaking solar-powered drone developed through a partnership between French defense electronics company Thales and US aerospace startup Skydweller Aero. This unmanned aerial system, named MAPS (Medium-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite), features a wingspan larger than a Boeing 747 and can carry payloads up to 881 pounds (400 kg). Designed for persistent, long-duration flights lasting weeks to a month, the drone operates at medium altitudes without carbon emissions, enabling near-continuous surveillance of vast maritime areas such as Exclusive Economic Zones, shipping lanes, and contested waters. A key innovation is the integration of Thales’ AirMaster S radar, an AI-enabled, lightweight sensor suite with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, which provides rapid situational awareness across air, land, and sea domains. The radar’s AI-driven data processing allows onboard target classification, reducing data transmission needs and enhancing bandwidth efficiency critical for extended autonomous missions. This combination creates a fully autonomous
dronesolar-powerautonomous-systemsAIenergymaritime-surveillanceUAVUK Air Force deploys first-ever combat drone with 5,750-mile range
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has officially inducted the Protector RG Mk1 drone, marking the UK's first Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS) certified to operate across all classes of domestic airspace. This new platform replaces the older MQ-9A Reaper with the more advanced MQ-9B SkyGuardian, offering enhanced endurance, intelligence gathering, and precision strike capabilities. The Protector can operate for over 30 hours at altitudes up to 40,000 feet and has a range exceeding 5,750 miles, enabling it to patrol entire continents without landing. It carries advanced weaponry, including 500lb Paveway IV laser-guided bombs and Brimstone 3 missiles, and integrates sophisticated sensors such as the Lynx Multi-mode Radar and electro-optical/infrared suites. The drone’s certification for safe operation within civilian airspace, enabled by GA-ASI’s Detect and Avoid System, represents a significant advancement over legacy platforms, allowing it to operate in
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologysurveillanceremote-pilotingaerospaceFirst-time maker’s 3D-printed drone could fly 130 miles in 3 hours
Engineer Tsung Xu, a first-time maker with no formal background in aerodynamics or 3D printing, successfully designed and built a fully functional vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) fixed-wing drone capable of flying 130 miles (209.2 km) in about 3 hours. Completed in just 90 days, Xu’s project involved designing, modeling, and 3D printing every aerodynamic surface and structural component from scratch using a consumer-grade Bambu Lab A1 desktop 3D printer. Non-printable elements such as motors, radio equipment, and electronic speed controllers were sourced separately and integrated into the system, which is powered by a high-energy-density lithium battery to maximize endurance. The drone’s VTOL capability allows it to take off and land vertically without a runway, then transition to efficient forward flight, a feature typically found in advanced military or commercial unmanned aerial systems. Xu’s achievement demonstrates how accessible technologies like desktop 3D printing and off-the-shelf components can enable
robotdrone3D-printinglithium-batteryVTOLaerospace-engineeringunmanned-aerial-systemsRussia to train school kids with world’s first drone ops textbook
robotdroneeducationunmanned-systemstechnologyroboticsUAVChina’s 2,200-pound lifting monster drone completes maiden flight
robotdronelogisticsunmanned-aerial-vehicleaerial-transportcargo-dronesupply-chainHọc sinh 'chơi mà học' với drone
droneUAVeducationtechnologyroboticsinnovationstudent-engagementHệ thống drone kiểm tra thần tốc đường dây điện
droneinspectionenergyautomationtechnologytransmission-linesefficiencyMáy bay Anh lập kỷ lục bay liên tục lâu nhất thế giới
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