The defense arm of aerospace company Teledyne Technologies unveiled a new portable drone platform this week that can launch and retrieve drones while troops are on the move.
The SkyCarrier drone launch platform was revealed by Teledyne FLIR Defense at the Defense and Security Equipment International, or DSEI, trade show in London, detailing how the fully autonomous system can assist in the launch and retrieval of Teledyne’s SkyRanger and SkyRaider drones.
SkyCarrier is contained within a durable box that unfolds into a fully articulating launch and landing platform. The system’s portability means it can be used on uneven terrain or while in motion. SkyCarrier also improves drone navigation by employing large visual markers, such as QR codes or AprilTags, on its landing platform, facilitating autonomous return without human intervention.
Teledyne FLIR Defense said that SkyCarrier will be incredibly useful to both civilian and military personnel.
“SkyCarrier offers both military and non-military users a versatile UAS solution that reduces operator workload while boosting efficiency,” said JihFen Lei, president of Teledyne FLIR Defense. “Its ability to launch, recover, and manage drones from moving platforms — without GPS or constant operator control — makes it a game-changer for missions ranging from battlefield surveillance and disaster response to critical infrastructure protection.”
According to a release, drones launched from SkyCarrier will use a “Follow Me” mode, allowing them to track and eventually return to designated locations. SkyCarrier operators can also manage up to 16 drones simultaneously and can autonomously switch between drones during a mission.
Teledyne FLIR Defense stated that SkyCarrier has been tested on several high-speed boats and ground vehicles traveling at speeds exceeding 30mph.
The company indicated that SkyCarrier-launched drones would be best suited for reconnaissance missions aimed at gathering information quickly. Specifically, Teledyne FLIR Defense noted that the drones could assist in hazmat and border security operations.
• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.