US Army Develops Tech to Keep Drones in the Air Indefinitely

US Army Develops Tech to Keep Drones in the Air Indefinitely/iStock

VoM News Desk | September 17, 2024 | 04:25 PM IST | Breaking News, Technology, United States of America | Follow on Google News

US Army Develops Tech to Keep Drones in the Air Indefinitely

US Army Develops Tech to Keep Drones in the Air Indefinitely

The US Army has patented a groundbreaking drone tethering system aimed at revolutionizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations. Developed by the Army Research Laboratory in Maryland, this new technology allows drones to recharge mid-flight using other UAVs, potentially enabling drones to stay airborne indefinitely.

The concept mimics mid-air refueling used by jets. A lead drone, or base station, deploys a tether with multiple docking points. Other drones connect to this powered tether, recharge, and then detach to perform independent missions. This method allows continuous power supply without returning to a base, addressing the critical limitation of battery life in electric UAVs.

The patented system utilizes several coupling mechanisms along the tether, which includes electrical connectors to power the drones. The drones can connect, disconnect, and move along the tether, providing flexibility and enhancing the duration and range of their flight. The system is particularly useful for long-duration surveillance missions, where continuous aerial monitoring from different angles is needed.

The Army’s innovative approach offers significant benefits, including persistent surveillance, the ability to navigate complex environments, and concealment of the ground station’s location.

This technology is part of a broader trend of developing tethered drone systems to overcome the range limitations of electric UAVs. Companies like Elistair are also advancing tethered drone solutions, collaborating with Rheinmetall Canada to provide military-grade intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. With these developments, tethered drones could redefine the future of UAV operations, making long-range, continuous aerial missions more feasible.

VoM News Desk

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