Event 38 Unmanned Systems and TB2 Aerospace are pleased to announce a collaboration integrating TB2 Aerospace’s Drone Recharging Operational Payload System (DROPS) with Event 38’s E455 fixed-wing VTOL unmanned aircraft.

Through this collaboration, TB2 Aerospace is utilizing the E455 as a fixed-wing aircraft for its DROPS solution. The integration combines E455’s long endurance, vertical and takeoff capabilities, modular payload architecture, and U.S.- based manufacturing with DROPS autonomous payload capture, launch, delivery, and recovery capabilities.

“DROPS is a patented multi-mission payload system, designed to fit any UAS, allowing the UAS to autonomously capture, launch and recover payloads without human intervention,” said Hank Scott, Founder of TB2 Aerospace and inventor of DROPS. “It has the added advantage of offering optional supplemental power to extend the range of electric UAS.”

The E455’s removable payload bay and open architecture make it well suited for the integration of specialized systems. The aircraft can support a range of defense, public safety, and commercial applications, including cargo delivery, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, mapping, and communications missions.

“We designed the E455 to provide customers and technology partners with the flexibility to integrate advanced payloads and rapidly adapt the aircraft for new missions,” said Jeff Taylor, Founder and CEO of Event 38 Unmanned Systems. “Integrating DROPS with the E455 demonstrates how an open, modular aircraft can serve as the foundation for a highly versatile autonomous system. We’re excited to work with TB2 Aerospace to expand what the E455 can accomplish.”

The collaboration is intended to create a flexible multi-mission solution that combines the efficiency and endurance of a fixed-wing aircraft with autonomous payload handling.

Multiple DROPS-enabled E455 aircraft could be deployed with different mission-specific payloads, allowing operators to tailor each aircraft to a particular role while maintaining a common airframe, payload interface, and operating approach.

Source: Event 38