Following the recent introduction of its Advanced Drone Motor (ADM), PMW Dynamics takes a closer look at the engineering decisions and manufacturing philosophy that underpin the platform. The ADM has been developed as a purpose-engineered propulsion solution, combining high performance with reliability and assured supply for demanding UAV applications.
As UAVs play increasingly critical roles in defence, security surveillance, and sensitive national-level applications, system integrity and source traceability have never been more vital. Addressing this need, PMW Dynamics has engineered the ADM entirely within the UK, underlining its commitment to domestic design excellence and British manufacturing integrity.
Meeting the Needs of High-Performance UAV Platforms
The ADM is designed to deliver a compelling balance of power, efficiency, and compactness, a combination essential for propulsion and lift systems in cutting-edge UAV architectures. Its initial specification highlights include:
- Peak Torque: 2.6 Nm
- Peak Speed @ Peak Torque: 3,750 RPM
- Rated Voltage: 48 V DC
- Outer Diameter: 90 mm (nominal)
- Overall Height: 30 mm (nominal)
- Peak Current (180 s): 32A
- Peak Power (180 s): 1.1 kW
- Kv: 97.5 RPM/Vpk
These headline figures underscore a carefully optimised design for high-demand UAV applications where dynamic response, precise control, and power density are critical performance differentiators.
Engineering and Manufacturing, British at Every Step
Unlike many globally sourced off-the-shelf components, the ADM has been designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in the United Kingdom by PMW Dynamics’ expert engineering team. This vertical integration not only ensures stringent quality control but also enhances supply-chain resilience, a significant advantage for defence, government, and security sector customers seeking assured sources and traceability.
In an era where global supply uncertainty can impact mission-critical programmes, UK-based innovation and production provide both strategic confidence and engineering transparency, reinforcing PMW Dynamics’ longstanding reputation for robust British-built motion solutions.
Ready to explore ADM with us?
With initial data now published, PMW Dynamics invites aerospace, defence, and UAV system integrators to discuss their specific motor requirements and explore how the ADM can be configured to meet bespoke performance targets.
PMW Dynamics will also be showcasing the ADM at Eurosatory, Paris, and the Farnborough International Airshow, providing an opportunity to view the motor in person and engage directly with the engineering team.
For detailed specifications, technical dialogue, or application support, contact PMW Dynamics’ experienced application engineers today.
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Globalstar (NASDAQ: GSAT), a next-generation telecommunications infrastructure and technology provider, today announces the successful completion of a joint technology trial with Skydio, the leading U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight. The companies validated compatibility between the Skydio X10 and Globalstar’s licensed Band n53 spectrum, as well as Globalstar’s XCOM RAN private 5G platform.
Skydio and Globalstar’s trial evaluated Band n53 and XCOM RAN as a representative, high-performance alternative to traditional Wi-Fi or public cellular networks. Globalstar holds full licensed rights to Band n53, making the spectrum predictable, secure, and immediately available for operational testing. XCOM RAN delivers deterministic performance, high uplink throughput, and robust coherence in dense or challenging environments. Together, they enable reliable command, control, and streaming video performance for airborne operations.
“One of the biggest advantages in this trial was how quickly we were able to integrate Band n53 using an existing module already supported within Globalstar’s ecosystem,” said Skydio CTO Abe Bachrach. “It allowed us to move fast and begin real-world testing very quickly. We are excited about the capabilities XCOM RAN brings and looking forward to future collaboration on both indoor and outdoor use cases.”
“Skydio is one of the most innovative drone companies in the world and their public safety mission requires the most reliable connectivity possible,” said Globalstar CEO Dr. Paul E. Jacobs. “This trial highlights the strength of Band n53 and the XCOM RAN architecture for high performance uplink applications like autonomous drones. We are proud to support a future where first responders have the tools they need to move faster and stay safer.”
About Globalstar, Inc.
Globalstar is a global telecommunications provider connecting what matters most. Through our industry-leading low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation and licensed Band 53/n53 spectrum, we deliver reliable satellite and terrestrial connectivity solutions that empower customers worldwide to connect, transmit, and communicate smarter.
Our comprehensive connectivity ecosystem includes software-defined, purpose-built private wireless network platform, coupled with Globalstar Band 53 in XCOM RANTM and trusted GPS messengers Saved by SPOTTM for safety and personal communication for business and enterprise applications.
Serving business, enterprises, and consumer markets across the globe, Globalstar supports applications that track and protect assets, enable automation, enhance operational efficiency, and safeguard lives. With unmatched reach and a relentless focus on innovation, and mission-critical performance, we’re redefining what’s possible for global connectivity.
To learn more, visit www.globalstar.com
About XCOM RAN
XCOM RAN by Globalstar is the next generation in private 5G, designed to support tomorrow’s mission-critical industrial automation requirements. XCOM RAN delivers unprecedented performance by taking a new approach to private 5G that increases capacity by 4x over first generation offerings, enabling flawless connectivity in the densest automation environments.
XCOM RAN can run on the shared spectrum traditionally used for private 5G deployments, but it can also leverage Globalstar’s licensed Band n53 as a dedicated band for worry-free private 5G deployments. Its new Supercell architecture removes the need for site surveys and network design, providing full coverage in industrial environments that can be deployed quickly and easily managed by an enterprise IT team.
To learn more, visit www.xcomran.com
About Skydio
Skydio is the leading U.S.-based drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight, leveraging breakthrough AI to create the world’s most intelligent flying machines for use by public safety, government, utility, and enterprise customers. Skydio designs, assembles, and supports its products in the U.S. from its headquarters in San Mateo, California.
Founded in 2014, Skydio is trusted by industry leaders and backed by top investors and strategic partners, including Andreessen Horowitz, Levitate Capital, Next47, IVP, Playground, and NVIDIA. For more information, visit skydio.com
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A trusted marketplace expanding NDAA and Blue UAS compliance services.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – UAS Nexus known across the global drone ecosystem for its industry leadership and behind-the-scenes engineering, has launched the Drone Syndicate Store, a comprehensive and vetted marketplace for NDAA and Blue UAS compliant components.
“It can be tough to scour the globe for drone parts when you’re looking to build an NDAA or BlueUAS compliant platform, so we developed a resource for OEMs and end-users to procure hardware quickly and reliability that layers into our technical engineering services. ” said CEO Bobby Sakaki of the next step for UAS Nexus.
The launch also introduces Platform One, UAS Nexus’ MOSA-first FPV platform that is compatible with most COTs components, offering a truly modular and scalable solution that leverages decentralized manufacturing to output over 10,000 aircraft per month.
“It’s simple, and it works with just about everything on the market – so you have a truly resilient supply chain because if one vendor is maxed out, you can leverage dozens of others. Plus when you manufacture on the edge, you can customize it however you want” said Head of Mechanical, Ryan LaBarre, who designed Platform One.
The Syndicate store operates through a membership request system, reflecting UAS Nexus’ ongoing work sourcing components with limited availability and specialized compliance requirements, as well as vetting end users..
This update represents a significant brand refresh and the debut of a dedicated storefront that highlights the work UAS Nexus has been building for years.
Learn more about UAS Nexus, Platform One, and The Syndicate by visiting uasnexus.com
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- EDGE and Anduril will establish the EDGE-Anduril Production Alliance in the UAE, a jointly-owned production, sales and sustainment vehicle for next-generation autonomous systems.
- Together, the parties will collaborate on Omen, a newly-developed hover-to-cruise Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV) designed to pack the endurance, payload, and mission flexibility of much larger systems into a novel runway-independent group 3 airframe.
- The UAE will acquire the first 50 Omen systems, creating a guaranteed production base, expanding local supply chains, and accelerating the country’s path toward domestic mass production of AAVs.
- Omen is the first in a series of autonomous systems envisioned under the joint venture.
EDGE, one of the world’s leading advanced technology and defense groups, and Anduril, a global defense technology company, will launch a joint venture to accelerate the design, development, and production of autonomous systems to support civil and defense mission sets in the Middle East and surrounding regions. The United States and United Arab Emirates have a long-standing defense partnership rooted in shared security and commercial interests. Through this collaboration, Anduril and EDGE are deepening that alliance by co-developing critical capabilities that strengthen both nations’ commercial aerospace and defense ecosystems and expand access to advanced, software-defined technologies.
The joint venture will include the formation of a new jointly-owned production, sales and sustainment vehicle, the EDGE–Anduril Production Alliance, which will serve as a center of gravity for modern commercial and defense manufacturing in the region. The parties are in the process of finalising the detailed arrangements in line with the necessary US and UAE approvals required.
The joint venture will combine EDGE’s regional presence and established trust across the Middle East with Anduril’s expertise in rapid, software-driven development and large-scale production. Together, the companies aim to deliver the kind of affordable, fieldable mass that modern deterrence requires — systems that are capable, scalable, and ready for operational use for a wide range of commercial and defense applications. The UAE has confirmed the acquisition of 50 Omen systems, representing a decisive investment that anchors production and will accelerate the development of future co-developed systems.
H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Chairman of EDGE Group, said: “Our strategic partnership with Anduril opens new pathways for EDGE to harness some of the most advanced autonomous systems engineering in the world. Embedding that capability in the UAE fundamentally accelerates how we innovate, build and field next-generation systems. Omen exemplifies this transformation, combining deep autonomy, operational intelligence, and local production to reinforce the UAE’s position at the forefront of autonomous air capability.”
Trae Stephens, Co-Founder and Executive Chair, Anduril said: “Defense innovation is measured not by ideas, but by the pace at which those ideas translate into capability. With EDGE, we’re aligning the means of production with the urgency of modern deterrence.”
An Alliance for Speed, Scale, and Sovereignty
Under the joint venture agreements, the parties will collaborate on defined projects, coordinate related business development globally, and oversee a shared portfolio of in-scope autonomous systems for military and civilian applications. Activities proposed for partnership through the joint venture may require U.S. and UAE government approval. EDGE and Anduril will work closely with U.S. and UAE authorities to ensure full compliance with applicable laws and regulations including trade compliance rules and regulations.
For EDGE, the joint venture brings access to Anduril’s continuously updated Lattice software platform, a foundational layer of AI-driven command and control that will supercharge both new and existing in-scope joint venture systems. For Anduril, the joint venture creates a trusted production base in the Middle East, allowing systems conceived in California and built in Ohio to be designed, adapted, and manufactured in Abu Dhabi for regional customers. Both companies share a philosophy: move fast, invest ahead of need, and deliver real capability.
Introducing Omen
The first of many systems that will be co-developed and locally produced is Omen, a hover-to-cruise Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV) that will combine the endurance, payload, and autonomy of larger systems with the flexibility of a compact, runway-independent airframe. Omen builds on Anduril’s $850 million investment in mission autonomy technology and Group 3 VTOL development, paired with nearly $200 million in new investment from EDGE. Together, the companies will take the aircraft from development to full-rate production by the end of 2028.
The UAE has finalized an initial acquisition of 50 Omen systems, creating a guaranteed production base and manufacturing system, expanding local supply chains, and accelerating the country’s path toward domestic mass production of autonomous dual use aircraft, establishing a clear transition from co-development to serial production, operational deployment, and future export to regional and international customers.
Systems for the UAE and other allies will be produced locally by the EDGE-Anduril Production Alliance in the UAE, while U.S. orders are expected to be fulfilled at Anduril’s Arsenal-1 facility in Ohio.
Designed for Multi-Domain and Dual-Use Missions
Omen will provide long-range and high payload for distributed and expeditionary operations. Powered by Anduril’s Lattice for Mission Autonomy software, multiple aircraft will coordinate flight paths, share sensor data, and adapt behavior in real time, enabling new missions that bring the capabilities of much larger systems to smaller, more expeditionary units.
Its lightweight, foldable frame will allow a two-person team to transport, assemble, and launch the aircraft in minutes without specialized infrastructure. Built for endurance and heavy payloads, Omen will support missions ranging from maritime surveillance and logistics resupply to air defense sensing and communications relay.
Its open, modular architecture will enable reconfiguration for diverse missions across defense and civilian domains. Beyond military use, Omen will be optimized for a variety of commercial mission sets. For example, Omen could serve as an airborne cell tower to restore connectivity after natural disasters, support humanitarian relief, or deliver critical supplies to remote areas when ground access is cut off.
Built and Produced in the UAE
In addition to the EDGE-Anduril Production Alliance’s expected production and sustainment facilities, Anduril is establishing a permanent UAE presence with a 50,000-square-foot research, development, and virtual simulation centre, purpose-built to expand and evolve with future programmes. The facility will serve as a regional hub for engineering, design, and prototyping — supporting the development, integration, and testing of advanced autonomous systems and related hardware.
By co-investing ahead of need and embedding production capacity in the UAE, EDGE and Anduril are shortening the distance between concept and fielded capability. The joint venture represents a concrete step toward a more agile, self-reliant commercial and defense industrial base—one designed to produce real systems, at scale for the missions that matter most.
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We’re excited to announce a brand-new product from Angel Aerial Systems: the Trio Scout.
A lightweight, compact, ultra-quiet tricopter proudly manufactured in Ohio, USA.
100 minutes of hover time (yes, really!)
Optical camera with 40× zoom + 640×480 thermal camera
NDAA compliant
The Trio Scout is available now, giving customers access to more than double the flight endurance of the leading quadcopters in its class.
For fans of our original Trio drone — with its more efficient windmilling design — don’t worry, it remains our flagship product. We’re making additional improvements to push its flight time beyond even 2 hours, with release now planned for later 2026.
List price: $34,999
Current lead time: 10 weeks
https://angelaerialsystems.com/trio-scout%E2%84%A2
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Meet the immediate Tether Solution from ARASTELLE for Parrot ANAFI UKR, the only energy-sufficient ultra-portable tether made for Defense, Public Safety, Government agencies and Enterprise.
This tether solution turns in seconds the recently announced Parrot ANAFI UKR into a powerful watchtower.
https://www.parrot.com/en/drones/anafi-usa
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DroneSense, a leading public safety drone software provider, and Parrot, Europe’s leading commercial micro-UAV group, today announced a strategic partnership alongside the launch of the Parrot ANAFI UKR GOV micro-UAV at the 2025 Paris Air Show. This integrated solution delivers a Blue UAS / NDAA-compliant drone hardware and software platform tailored for U.S. public safety agencies navigating heightened regulatory demands and increasing mission complexity.
By combining Parrot’s trusted ANAFI UKR GOV hardware with DroneSense’s operationally proven software, the partnership introduces a new standard in situational awareness, tactical coordination, and Drone as First Responder (DFR) readiness. DroneSense will provide the complete bundle – hardware, software, and aftermarket care – directly to public safety agencies, ensuring fast deployment, reliable support, and uninterrupted mission capability.
The ANAFI UKR GOV drone features encrypted communications through local radio and 4G/5G cellular networks. Its advanced navigation capabilities enable precise flight even in GNSS-denied environments, using visual inertial odometry and AI-enhanced geo-positioning to calculate position and velocity in real-time. The drone also includes a LoRa backup radio for secure communications if primary links are lost or jammed.
Blue UAS-approved and NDAA-compliant, the ANAFI UKR GOV is ultra-portable at just 2.1 pounds (959 grams) and can be airborne in under 120 seconds. Equipped with 35x zoom, 4K HDR video, and FLIR Boson thermal imaging (640 x 512 px), the drone delivers superior mission coverage. Its advanced target recognition and tracking features enable autonomous object detection, identification, and following with minimal pilot input. The platform also offers remote antenna capabilities for tactical operations and open-architecture integration via Parrot SDK 8.
The DroneSense software platform provides situational awareness by combining video streaming, integrated mapping, and sensor data. Its DFR-ready capabilities support remote operations, including Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) technology and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight. The intuitive mission management interface allows rapid deployment, collaborative planning, and multi-agency coordination. DroneSense’s hardware-agnostic design ensures compatibility with multiple drone platforms, while its enterprise-grade cybersecurity infrastructure ensures compliance, privacy, and data protection.
“Public safety agencies urgently need capable and reliable drone hardware solutions for a variety of mission profiles,” said Chris Eyhorn, CEO of DroneSense. “Together, we’re delivering a compelling alternative – combining Parrot’s advanced hardware with DroneSense’s mission-proven, hardware-agnostic platform.”
“DroneSense’s software platform perfectly complements the Parrot ANAFI UKR GOV micro UAV, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities for U.S. Public Safety Agencies,” added Chris Roberts, Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at Parrot Drones. “This integration sets a new standard for secure and effective drone operations, supporting mission success across complex operational environments.”
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WISPR Systems and NW Blue are proud to partner together to form an alliance focused on showcasing the best in American-made drone technology and advancing the conversation around precision, reliability and real-world applications. Through this partnership, the two companies are setting a new standard in unmanned systems, driven by a mutual commitment to performance, compliance and customer success.
Precision Platforms Meet Proven Components
WISPR Systems, headquartered in Batesville, Mississippi, designs and manufactures rugged, high-performance drones for mapping, surveying and inspection. The SkyScout, WISPR’s flagship UAV platform, is purpose-built for demanding field conditions and delivers industry-leading accuracy. Equipped with customizable payload options—including the 24MP Mapper, Sony ILX-LR1 and LiDAR units from Inertial Labs and YellowScan—the SkyScout empowers professionals across industries like construction, engineering and utilities to collect precise data with efficiency and ease.
This collaboration integrates NW Blue’s Herelink Blue, an all-in-one solution for ultra-low latency video, telemetry and control links up to 20 km. Manufactured in the USA of US and imported parts, the intuitive interface provides real-time feedback, giving drone pilots unmatched situational awareness and responsiveness in the field. Built for reliability, the Herelink Blue system aligns with both companies’ commitment to professional-grade usability and mission-critical performance.
The Orange Cube helps future-proof our platforms, said John McArthur, VP of sales and marketing for WISPR Systems. It was an easy decision to invest in the best.
Powered by CubePilot
A key component in this collaboration is WISPR’s utilization of the CubePilot Cube Orange+ a Blue UAS Framework listed flight controller, distributed by NW Blue. This industry trusted autopilot with its redundant and isolated sensors is stress-tested by freezing/heating multiple times over a 24-hour period. Any detected IMU anomaly would cause its rejection—enabling WISPR drones to remain at the forefront of UAV performance.
A Shared Mission for U.S. Drone Leadership
This partnership reflects more than just technical integration—it’s about creating lasting value through American-made innovation and support. NW Blue isn’t just a top-tier manufacturer and distributor; it’s a partner committed to helping clients thrive.
At NW Blue, we’re driven not just by delivering the industry’s most trusted UxV components, but by building lasting partnerships through unmatched support, said Hillary Bierschank co-founder of NW Blue. Our greatest success is watching our partners such as WISPR grow and thrive.
Whether mapping power lines, surveying land, or training future operators, these integrated systems are designed to perform today and tomorrow.
Together, WISPR Systems and NW Blue aren’t just building drones. They’re building a smarter, more secure and more sustainable future for the U.S. drone industry.
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Skip Dynamix is committed to imagining the next generation of autonomous systems. We design, prototype and deploy emergent solutions. We go where our customers are, collaborating, testing, training, and operating alongside them. We are relentless in our animating vision to bring the future of applied autonomy to life.
By the numbers
- Cruise speed – 65 kph
- Endurance – 1 hour per kg of battery
- Battery sizes – 1 kg, 2kg, 5kg
- Empty weight – 3 kg
- Maximum hand launch weight – 8 kg
- Maximum assisted launch weight – 10 kg
- Fuselage diameter – 150 mm
- Time from box to sky – 2 minutes
Made in the USA
Orca is fabricated and assembled in the USA using components made in the USA or non-covered sources.
Made to order
Orca can be delivered as an empty ready to fly airframe or customized as required, from one copy to thousands.
Multi-mission
Operators define Orca’s mission. Here are some examples:
Reconnaissance
- Payload – 1 kg sensor + radios
- Endurance 4 hours
Payload delivery
- Payload – 5kg warhead + seeker
- Range – 60 km
Electronic Warfare
- Payload – 0.5 kg emitter
- Endurance – 4 hours
MESH Node
- Payload – 0.25 kg radio
- Endurance – 4 hours
Decoy/Target/Surrogate
- Endurance – 4 + hours
Fixed-wing
Twice the endurance/range of a comparable hybrid sUAS
4 X the speed, endurance/range of a comparable copter sUAS
Easy to Salvo
Launch one, launch many…homogenous, heterogeneous salvos.
Example: A 2-person crew, from a small SUV or boat, can launch a 6-Orca salvo in less than 5 minutes from first box opened on to last plane airborne, with the first plane launched to last plane airborne in less than 1 minute.
Designed for the “Incidental Operator”
Every Orca is made to be operated with minimum training. Orca can be launched by hand, via a bungee launcher, or short-stroke mechanical launcher. Orca innately can fly from launch to landing without human input.
Go anywhere
Each Orca is packaged in airline compliant transport cases made to withstand all modes of travel.
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The changing landscape of U.S. tech manufacturing spearheaded by the dynamic drone sector reflects a broader push to reduce reliance on Chinese components and bolster national security. Industry stakeholders must stay informed and proactive in navigating these evolving regulatory environments.
The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has recently sanctioned Jiangzi Xintuo Enterprise Co. Ltd, also known as T-Motor, a major global supplier of rotor components used in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This follows the Department of Commerce’s 2024 decision to place T-Motor on the Bureau of Industry and Security’s Entity List due to its support of foreign military capabilities. These actions highlight growing concerns about supply chain security and national security objectives in the U.S.
While motors are not currently covered under National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) restrictions, as trade organization AUVSI points out in a policy blog, ‘T-Motor Sanctions: AUVSI’s Analysis and Recommendations’ U.S. companies must be aware that non-defense government actions, like OFAC sanctions and the Commerce Department Entity List, pose significant compliance risks for continued reliance on these components. Industry leaders are working to identify and transition to alternative suppliers, though challenges in availability, cost, and performance remain.
Made in the USA
The drive to find alternatives to Chinese-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and components is gaining momentum. Legislative measures and lists of approved vendors, such as the US Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Blue UAS Cleared List, are steering buyers away from vendors like DJI and T-Motor. For example, North Dakota’s state government, supported by the governor, is proposing a $15 million investment to replace Chinese drones used by state agencies.
Florida’s state government also requires its agencies to purchase drones from an approved list based on recommendations from the Department of Management Services. This trend is not confined to the U.S.; Ukraine’s Ministry of Strategic Industries recently showcased its domestic UAV manufacturers to promote non-Chinese vendors.
Both public and private sectors are working to find alternatives to Chinese drone vendors and component suppliers. Trade and lobby groups such as AUVSI, the United States National Drone Association and National Drone Association of America (NDAOA) are marshalling the voice of users, operators and supply chains, as manufacturers in China have begun limiting or stopping deliveries of essential UAV components to the U.S. and Europe.
Public safety
Meanwhile, the environment and technologies employed to support public safety in the United States are undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in and the adoption of drone technology. This evolution is set against a backdrop of increased demands for de-escalation, enhanced situational awareness, and more efficient resource allocation amidst public safety staffing shortages and challenges, as reported by law enforcement news portal Police 1.
Types of Drones Used in Public Safety
Public safety agencies utilize different types of drones based on their specific needs. Here are the primary categories:
- Fixed-Wing Drones – These drones are designed for long-range surveillance, mapping, and large-area search and rescue operations. They provide extended flight times and are used for disaster response and border security.
- Multi-Rotor Drones – These are the most commonly used drones in public safety, offering agility, ease of use, and the ability to hover. They are widely employed by law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency response teams.
- Hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) Drones – These drones combine the benefits of fixed-wing and multi-rotor designs, making them suitable for extended missions requiring both endurance and maneuverability.
Key Applications of Drones in Public Safety
Law Enforcement
- Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Drones assist in monitoring criminal activity, gathering intelligence, and providing real-time data.
- Crowd Control and Event Security: Law enforcement uses drones to oversee large public gatherings, protests, and sporting events.
- Tactical Support: SWAT teams deploy drones for situational awareness before entering potentially dangerous situations.
Firefighting
- Wildfire Management: Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras help locate hotspots and track the spread of wildfires.
- Structural Fire Assessment: Firefighters use drones to assess burning buildings and determine safe entry points.
Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Disaster Response: After natural disasters, drones help locate survivors and assess damage.
- Missing Persons Search: Equipped with infrared cameras, drones assist SAR teams in locating lost individuals in difficult terrains or low-visibility conditions.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Medical Supply Delivery: Some agencies are testing drone delivery of defibrillators, first aid kits, and other emergency supplies.
- Accident Scene Analysis: Drones provide aerial views of accident sites, helping EMS teams coordinate their response.
At the forefront of this evolution are American drone manufacturers like BRINC Drones (Washington), Flock Safety (Atlanta) , which recently acquired Aerodome (California), Skydio (California) Impossible Aerospace (California) and AeroVironment (Virginia), TeledyneFlir (Oregon) and Parrot Anafi USA (Massachusetts ). These companies are innovating and are positioned to lead the market as competition intensifies, particularly in light of a potential ban on Chinese-made drones, such as those produced by DJI. The potential banning of DJI drones, due to security concerns and increasing scrutiny of Chinese technology, may create a unique opportunity for American manufacturers to dominate the U.S. market. However, many public safety agencies currently consider DJI drones to be more capable and significantly cheaper than their domestic counterparts. With DJI’s significant penetration in public safety agencies, a vacuum created by its potential absence will spark an arms race among U.S.-based companies to develop superior products tailored for public safety use.
This competition is expected to drive rapid innovation, improve product quality, and potentially lower costs, making advanced drone technology more accessible to police departments, fire departments, and other governmental agencies nationwide. As these manufacturers vie for market share, the ultimate winners will be public safety agencies and the communities they serve.
Home-grown supply chain
In this fast-moving space, AUVSI encourages members to assess their supply chain exposure and consider alternative sourcing strategies. In active conversations with the Department of Defense, Department of Commerce, and Capitol Hill, AUVSI is exploring efforts, including invoking the Defense Production Act, to provide financial assistance to U.S. companies for building, expanding, or modernizing production facilities.
These measures aim to support domestic supply chains for critical technologies that are challenging to source outside of China.
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