On this episode of the Drone Radio Show: Kaitlyn Albertoli, CEO and co-founder of Buzz Solutions, talks with host Randy Goers about how AI and drones are transforming traditional utility inspections and the challenges of implementing and scaling these technologies.
Listen here:
Kaitlyn Albertoli is CEO and co-founder of Buzz Solutions. Buzz Solutions leverages AI and drone technology to revolutionize how power utilities inspect and modernize their infrastructure. The company’s innovative software platform, featuring tools like PowerAI and PowerGUARD, uses advanced data analytics and machine learning to automate visual inspections, enhancing the safety, efficiency, and resilience of the electric grid. Their mission is to empower utilities to proactively monitor and manage their systems, reducing outages, preventing wildfires, and ensuring reliable energy delivery. Committed to driving innovation, Buzz Solutions equips teams with cutting-edge solutions to analyze data, collaborate seamlessly, and export actionable inspection results—all aimed at fostering smarter, more stable infrastructure for a sustainable future.
A Stanford University graduate with a background in sustainability and finance, Kaitlyn is widely regarded as a thought leader in the energy and technology sectors. She frequently speaks at industry events and conferences on topics spanning utilities, AI, and infrastructure resilience. Before co-founding Buzz Solutions with Vik Chaudhry to safeguard the world’s energy infrastructure, Kaitlyn worked as a wealth management analyst at JP Morgan Chase. In 2021, her leadership and vision earned her a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Together, she and Vik are tackling critical challenges like grid-sparked wildfires, power outages, and storm damage with a bold, tech-driven approach.
In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Kaitlyn talks about Buzz Solutions, how AI and drones are transforming traditional utility inspections and the challenges of implementing and scaling these technologies.
Missed a recent episode? Catch up here:
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
A Wirral man has been found guilty after flying his drone in breach of height and distance restrictions whilst filming the new Bramley Moore stadium.
Nicholas Durbin, 45, of Merlin Avenue, Upton, flew the drone in excess of the 400ft height limit on 9 May 2024, potentially endangering any other airspace users in that area.
The flight took place from the Wirral, crossing the River Mersey to the new Everton FC stadium at Bramley Moore Dock. During this flight he also travelled up to 1.3km away from his take off point, meaning he could not maintain visual line of sight.
On a previous occasion, on 20 March 2024, he also flew a drone at nearly 300ft above the legal height limit in Anglesey. During this flight he also travelled up to 2.39km away from his take off point, meaning he could not maintain visual line of sight.
He was found guilty at Sefton Magistrates Court yesterday, Thursday 13 March, on four offences – two offences of being the remote pilot of an unmanned aircraft failing to comply with operating height and two offences of being the remote pilot of an unmanned aircraft failing to keep unmanned aircraft in sight.
He was given a combined fine of £1600, victim surcharge of £640 and costs of £650 totalling £2890.
Sergeant Kyle Sayers said: “Over the coming months Merseyside Police will be proactively targeting illegal drone use and during the Aintree Festival next month a temporary restricted airspace will be in place.
“Merseyside Police is responsible for keeping the public safe and airspace restrictions form part of those measures just like road closures or river patrols.
“We have used drone restrictions to great effect during past large public events including Eurovision, Aintree Festival and the visit of HMS Prince of Wales to ensure people are not in any danger, however our proactive approach will not only target restricted airspace, as this prosecution shows.
“Drone users who fly inside a Restricted Airspace that have not been granted permission will be guilty of committing an offence and could be prosecuted as well as having their equipment seized and confiscated.”
For more information about the rules on drone flying go to: Introduction to drone flying and the UK rules | UK Civil Aviation Authority
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On this episode of The Drone Radio show with host Randy Goers: Kevin Hernandez and Dutch Alessi of Virtual Realty Rehab talk about VRR’s journey, the revolutionary HellHive and HoloWarrior systems, and how they’re bridging military prowess with commercial potential. Listen here:
Kevin Hernandez and Dutch Alessi are with Virtual Reality Rehab, or VRR. Founded in 2009, VRR is a pioneering research and development company with a bold mission: harnessing virtual and augmented reality technologies to push boundaries. With over 20 years of collective experience, their team specializes in creating innovative, multiplatform solutions for unmanned vehicle systems, advanced robotics, and next-level human-machine interfaces.
Now, VRR is making waves in drone warfare with a brilliantly simple idea called the HellHive. Picture this: a low-cost, portable shipping box that doesn’t just store and transport attack drones—it launches swarms of them, guided by their smart HoloWarrior software. This isn’t about building drones but supercharging them with tech like ‘BatMode’ for stealthy ambushes or scalable swarm assaults, all while keeping costs down. Imagine a cardboard box transforming how militaries deploy overwhelming force! With small Pentagon contracts already secured, VRR is now positioning it’s products for the commercial sector.
Leading the charge is Kevin Hernandez, VRR’s Chief Operating Officer. Kevin directs R&D in electrical engineering, overseeing the integration and deployment of unmanned systems. He also spearheads product development, marketing, and sales for VRR’s HoloAccesories and Bee drones. Alongside him is Dutch Alessi, Chief Scientist, who collaborates with engineers and partners to unlock new swarm capabilities, driving innovation at every turn.
In this episode, Kevin and Dutch talk about VRR’s journey, the revolutionary HellHive and HoloWarrior systems, and how they’re bridging military prowess with commercial potential.
Missed a recent episode? Catch up here:
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
The Dragon D-50 is a twin-nacelle aircraft specifically designed to provide unparalleled performance. A twin-nacelle configuration enables stereopsis, which offers several key advantages:
Accurate Distance Assessment: Enables precise determination of distances between objects, crucial for optimal target identification and positioning on the battlefield.
Enhanced 3D Vision: Offers a three-dimensional perspective of the environment, making it easier to comprehend spatial relationships between objects.
With the Dragon D-50’s twin-nacelle design, we offer enhanced visual clarity:
Improved Resolution: Dual optical sensors work together to boost ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) resolution and detail. Advanced image processing ensures sharper, more detailed imagery.
Wider Field of View: By deploying sensors on both payload nacelles, the aircraft provides a broader field of view than monocular systems, enhancing peripheral ISR coverage.
Evolution or Revolution
It also offers a whopping
88 litres and 50 kilo payload capacity with 100% redundancy, improving aircraft safety
When selecting the best-engineered solution for ISR, a twin-nacelle aircraft outperforms all other configurations. Lead the way.
UAVE Limited. British engineering excellence.
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Ukraine unveils its cutting-edge combat drone, the UAS SETH, a next-generation loitering munition that boasts electro-optical guidance, artificial vision, and automatic target acquisition. Drawing inspiration from the Shahed-136, this Ukrainian-designed UAV significantly improves precision strike capabilities while minimizing the operator’s workload.
Key Features:
- AI-Powered Targeting: A sophisticated electro-optical guidance system allows for autonomous target recognition and engagement.
- Shahed-136 Inspired Design: Incorporating lessons learned from Russia’s deployment of Shahed drones, the SETH is optimized for high-speed, precision strikes.
- Confirmed Battlefield Deployment: Reports confirm the UAS SETH has already been utilized in combat, enhancing Ukraine’s ability to neutralize Russian assets.
Strategic Impact:
- Reinforcing Ukraine’s Drone Warfare: The introduction of these advanced, AI-driven kamikaze drones highlights Ukraine’s increasing proficiency in autonomous warfare.
- Challenging Russian Air Defenses: The SETH drone introduces a new level of complexity for Russian air defenses, compelling them to adapt their electronic warfare strategies.
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WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate will conduct Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) testing in the National Capital Region (NCR) from March 10-15, 2025. Please note that these tests are closed to press and not open for media coverage.
During this period, multiple short-duration drone flights will be launched from designated sites to assess C-UAS technology capabilities. The team has coordinated and approved testing locations within the NCR with all stakeholders.
All test drone activities are closely coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and comply with the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107) such as the drone remaining within direct line-of-sight of the pilot and operating at altitudes that do not exceed 400 feet above ground level. FAA Part 107 certified pilots will conduct the flights in compliance with all Part 107 requirements. Law enforcement officers will accompany all drone teams. No test activity will occur at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) but the test coordinator will maintain real-time communication with DCA’s air traffic control for awareness.
This test is part of DHS’ ongoing efforts to enhance national security by evaluating C-UAS technologies against simulated threats. No data on non-test drones in the area will be intentionally collected or retained.
Participating agencies include the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Federal Protective Service (FPS), and local DC agencies through the National Capital Region Command Center (NCRCC).
For general information on DHS’ C-UAS efforts, please refer to the DHS C-UAS Privacy Impact Assessment (DHS/ALL/PIA-085, PDF, 22 pgs. 0.55 MB).
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Fishers, IN — Pierce Aerospace, a dual-use aerospace technology firm and global leader in UAS Remote Identification technologies, announced that DIU selected the company’s B1 Remote ID Beacon for the Blue UAS Framework. The B1 will begin the NDAA and cyber security verification process required to join the Blue UAS Framework Authority to Operate (ATO).
“The B1 Remote ID Beacon is the only Remote ID Module selected for the Blue UAS Framework,” said Aaron Pierce, CEO of Pierce Aerospace. “The B1’s selection by DIU is an honor, and we look forward to continuing to support our federal, public safety, and professional commercial customers across the country with the new designation as the only Blue UAS Remote ID Module on the market.”
The B1 Remote ID Beacon has repeatedly demonstrated its status as the top-performing Remote ID module in industry and government-sponsored evaluations. The B1’s high performance is trusted for national security missions and has contributed to recovering UAS airframes and sensors after mishaps. The B1 is regularly utilized by public safety and professional operators, including the film industry. The B1’s design excels at high speeds and with most drones with anti-collision sensors that traditionally present compatibility issues with attached payloads.
“There are numerous use cases for DOD end users to employ the B1 during training and in National Guard missions,” said Pierce. “Blue UAS flown by the DOD don’t always come equipped with Remote ID, which makes training and coordinated flight operations challenging in natural disaster responses. As part of the Blue UAS Framework, the B1 can more easily be acquired to help keep track of drones in training missions and ease coordination in complex airspace for disaster response missions. The B1 allows DOD operators to squawk Remote ID when it matches mission parameters.”
“The B1’s addition to the Blue UAS Framework demonstrates our company’s commitment to creating high-quality products and services for our customers,” said Pierce. “Pierce Aerospace started pioneering Remote ID in 2017. Our commitment and insight ensures that we consistently produce the highest quality Remote ID products on the market.”
The Blue UAS Framework is a list of Interoperable, NDAA-compliant UAS components and software that provide options for Government and industry partners. The Framework provides advanced capabilities to sUAS developers and reduces risk for government customers. It includes critical components, sub-components, modules & software.
DIU selected 23 platforms and 14 unique components for NDAA verification out of 369 proposals from companies in the U.S. and 18 other countries that applied to participate in the refresh challenge.
About Pierce Aerospace
Pierce Aerospace, a Techstars-backed company, is a dual-use IoT and aerospace company and drone Remote ID service provider focused on robust integration of Remote ID services into the UAS ecosystem. As an Industry Leader, Pierce Aerospace serves on the FAA’s Drone Safety Team, ASTM F38 Committee on Unmanned Aircraft Systems, and the FAA Detection and Mitigation Advanced Rulemaking Committee. Funds from the U.S. Air Force and the State of Indiana support Pierce Aerospace’s Remote ID technology, which was nominated as Indiana’s Innovation of the Year by Techpoint and awarded first place in Remote ID technology at AUVSI’s Excellence Awards. Pierce Aerospace was awarded the Techpoint Mira Award as Indiana’s most innovative tech team. The company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, the racing capital of the world.
Visit www.pierceaerospace.net.
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Latvia has awarded a research and development (R&D) contract to Origin Robotics, a defense technology startup, for the development of a high-speed interceptor drone. The initiative is part of the country’s broader strategy to build a multi-layered counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) and enhance national security against emerging aerial threats.
Strengthening Latvia’s Multi-Layered Defense System
The contract is part of a wider investment by the Latvian Ministry of Defence in modern defense solutions. Alongside Origin Robotics, other companies have been selected to work on electronic warfare and guided missile development. These investments reflect Latvia’s commitment to countering the growing threat of drones in modern warfare.
Drones have become an essential tool in military operations, offering low-cost yet highly effective reconnaissance and attack capabilities. However, countering these threats is a significant challenge. As part of the agreement, Origin Robotics will develop an interceptor drone designed to neutralize fast-moving airborne threats. The drone will be autonomous and cost-effective, providing rapid deployment capabilities to counter loitering munitions and hostile UAVs.
A Collaborative Investment Approach
The project will follow a co-financing model, with funding shared between the Latvian Ministry of Defence and Origin Robotics. Typically, defense sector contributions account for 65% of investment, while industry partners provide the remaining 35%. This model reflects a growing trend in Europe’s defense sector, where public-private partnerships drive innovation and accelerate the development of new technologies.
With military threats evolving faster than traditional defense procurement cycles, this funding approach ensures that new solutions reach the battlefield more quickly and at a lower cost. The collaboration aligns government priorities with industry expertise, fostering a more agile and responsive defense strategy.
Industry Expertise in Autonomous Combat Aerial Systems
Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, emphasized the importance of counter-drone technology in modern warfare. “As unmanned aerial vehicles reshape modern warfare, effective countermeasures are critical. This contract reflects the Ministry’s confidence in our expertise in autonomous combat aerial systems and validates the capabilities we’ve demonstrated with our deployed solutions. The Latvian MoD has entrusted us with developing a crucial C-UAS capability, and we appreciate the opportunity to take on this challenge and contribute to strengthening Latvia’s defence.”
Origin Robotics has already established itself in the field of autonomous aerial combat systems. Its flagship drone, BEAK, is currently in service with the Ukrainian military and two NATO countries in Europe. The company remains focused on developing next-generation defense technologies that address evolving battlefield threats and support security efforts across Europe.
Advancing European Defense Capabilities
The R&D contract awarded to Origin Robotics highlights Latvia’s proactive approach to enhancing national defense. By investing in innovative counter-drone solutions, the country aims to strengthen its ability to counter emerging aerial threats efficiently. As unmanned systems continue to reshape modern warfare, advancements in interceptor drone technology will play a critical role in ensuring national and regional security
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
Skydio, a U.S.-based drone manufacturer has announced the release of its Interface Control Document (ICD) for X10D payload attachments. This new development builds on the design of the Skydio X10D, allowing third parties to create custom payloads that enhance the drone’s functionality for a wide range of mission requirements.
Expanding Capabilities for Defense and Government Applications
Designed for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) applications, the Skydio X10D has been in full-rate production since last year. The new Attachment ICD provides defense and government agencies the flexibility to integrate payloads that meet specific operational needs. Skydio’s existing attachment options include a Spotlight, Speaker, RTK/PPK, Parachute, and the NightSense module, which enables autonomous flight in zero-light conditions.
With the release of the Attachment ICD, users can now develop additional payloads such as:
- Payload delivery and dropper devices
- Radio and signal relay devices
- Electronic Warfare (EW) or Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) signal detection devices
- Chemical detection devices
- Diversionary devices
The X10D features four attachment bays, each capable of delivering up to 50 watts of power. Skydio’s Attachment Detection Protocol ensures that all connected devices are properly powered and managed within the drone’s system. Future updates will include multiple attachment profiles, integrating industry standards like MAVLink and networking devices for enhanced compatibility.
Successful Partner Integrations Demonstrate Advanced Functionality
Skydio has collaborated with leading defense technology companies to validate the effectiveness of the Attachment ICD. L3Harris Technologies Inc. and Elsight have successfully integrated their respective payloads into the X10D platform, showcasing the expanded capabilities of the drone.
L3Harris RF-9820S-ER: This low-SWaP Software Defined Radio (SDR) is compatible with the U.S. Department of Defense’s program-of-record radios and operates on the resilient Wraith
waveform. Following a two-day integration process, Skydio and L3Harris successfully completed a test flight using the X10D with C2 and video transmission over the RF-9820S-ER.
“Bringing together Skydio’s X10D with L3Harris’ embeddable radio running the Wraith waveform, we have created a highly capable unmanned platform that can confidently operate in GPS-denied and jammed environments,” said Bob Daminski, Director of Unmanned Systems at L3Harris.
Elsight Halo: The Halo system provides Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) connectivity by aggregating multiple cellular modems. This ensures uninterrupted communication across cellular, radio, and satellite networks. Skydio and Elsight successfully conducted test flights using Halo for C2 and video transmission.
“Our battlefield-proven Halo for BVLOS connectivity enables military field operations to maintain communications in areas of minimal infrastructure, avoid interference and jamming, and control the system remotely from anywhere in the world,” said Yoav Amitai, CEO of Elsight. “We are excited to be a part of Skydio’s extended, modular, open platform of the X10D. We look forward to contributing our robust and innovative BVLOS capabilities to many U.S. defense applications and exercises.”
Commitment to U.S. Defense and Global Allies
By enabling third-party developers to create mission-specific payloads, the company aims to enhance adaptability and operational efficiency.
“We are committed to serving the needs of the U.S. military and our allies. With this Attachment ICD, these organizations can now adapt the Skydio X10D to the specific requirements of their mission,” said Ryan Reading, Vice President of Engineering at Skydio. “Our vision is to build a platform that can be rapidly adapted by developers and integrators to meet the needs of military users. This action builds on the modularity and openness that is the foundation of the Skydio X10D platform.”
For more information, visit Skydio.com or follow Skydio on LinkedIn.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
The trkME tracker is a versatile, multi-system tracking device designed to enhance the safety and operational efficiency of UAS. It features a comprehensive range of RF systems, including ADS-B receiver. This ensures robust communication and positioning capabilities, essential for navigating congested airspace. trkME has FLARM IN/OUT transceiver, BLE/Wi-Fi RemoteID transmitter and also has multi-constellation GNSS sensor on board to provide the best accuracy.
The LTE connectivity allows usage in all LTE/4G rich environments without the need for any additional cabling to send data. trkME opens the way to the safe integration of UAS into non-segregated airspace, implementation of the Detect and Avoid algorithms and reduce separation between airspace users. Aerobits trkME is designed to meet requirements of direct remote drone identification and localization in ASTM/ASD-STAN standard.
Using the BLE broadcast and WiFi Nan, Beacon frames technology, the device provides surveillance and drone operator identification capability based on any modern mobile devices such as smartphone or tablet. Our device fits in with the concept of Network Remote Identification and allow broadcast remote drone identification via LTE. It is a perfect solution for conducting VLOS/BVLOS operation where safety is critical.
Note:
The device to operate on FLARM frequency requires FLARM UAS license. The license must be obtained with the device from Aerobits upon purchase.
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