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<div class="caption">Above Photo: Army Lt. Gen. Anthony R. Hale, deputy chief of staff, G-2, visited soldiers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Jan. 13, 2025, to discuss the latest military innovations and their application on the front lines. Hale emphasized the importance of integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational capabilities and maintain readiness. Photo by Army Sgt. Jose Lora. Curated for The Droning Company readers from the <a style="color: #34495e;" href="https://www.defense.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">U.S. Department of Defense</a> website.</div>
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28 August 2025
By&nbsp;<a class="article-link" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Author/155376/army-capt-jennifer-french-173rd-airborne-brigade/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Army Capt. Jennifer French, 173rd Airborne Brigade</a>
For Army 1st Lt. Francesco La Torre, the Army's first drone-on-drone strike wasn't exactly a Hollywood moment.&nbsp;
"In [the Star Wars movie], A New Hope, Luke Skywalker flies an X-Wing through the Death Star trench and blows it up," La Torre said. "This wasn't like that. It was way harder. Honestly, it felt more like Darth Vader shooting down rebel pilots. He might be the villain, but he's also one of the best pilots in the galaxy."&nbsp; &nbsp; That was the image in La Torre's mind as his team with the 173rd Airborne Brigade achieved a milestone once unimaginable for conventional Army units: destroying an aircraft in flight using a first-person-view drone carrying an explosive charge.&nbsp; &nbsp; The strike took place earlier this month during the Army's Unmanned Aerial Systems and Launched Effects Summit, held Aug. 11-15 at Fort Rucker, Alabama. The live-fire event was led by the brigade's bayonet innovation team in partnership with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and engineers from Army Combat Capabilities Development Command.&nbsp;
"When I heard [Army] Chief [Warrant Officer 2] Nate Shea say, 'Arming,' when he was lined up behind the fixed wing threat UAS, I knew he'd take it down," La Torre said. "A few seconds later he detonated the claymore [mine], and I looked up from my end-user device to see the fixed-wing [aircraft] drop out of the sky."&nbsp; &nbsp; The success came after weeks of training. Paratroopers flew for hours each day, building muscle memory while rehearsing how to engage a fast-moving aircraft. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Topits familiarized himself with the fixed-wing platform a month in advance, while Shea practiced with inactive claymores. Once on the ground at Fort Rucker, the operators flew daily in changing weather, preparing for a target that could appear anywhere across the range.&nbsp; &nbsp; Technical skill proved as important as piloting.&nbsp; &nbsp; "The ability to train and solve problems immediately afterwards was critical to mission success," La Torre said. "The team was soldering, disassembling, reassembling and performing [quality assurance] around the clock while rehearsals were underway. While tactical units and technicians may not share the same language, they do share an intellectual curiosity and desire to succeed."&nbsp; &nbsp; La Torre emphasized what it means for the average paratrooper.&nbsp;
"With the right kit, paratroopers will be able to utilize a low-cost system with preexisting munitions to execute a wide variety of mission tasks &mdash; and have the power to protect their unit from an endemic threat," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp; The drone demonstration showed that innovation doesn't have to come from the top.&nbsp; &nbsp; "It feels extremely satisfying to have this level of impact, but solving these kinds of problems should not be alien to junior officers, or any leader," La Torre said. "Every year the Army produces leaders at all levels who are better educated now than ever before. At the end of the day, rank is immaterial when it comes to problem-solving."&nbsp; &nbsp; For La Torre, the milestone reflects how far the 173rd Airborne Brigade has come.&nbsp;
"At this time last year, this kind of training was a pipe dream for conventional units," he said. "For the engagement itself, Chief Shea did an incredible job and so did Chief Topits. It's such a difficult mission profile for both aircraft."&nbsp; &nbsp; Lessons from the bayonet innovation team fed directly into Fort Rucker's new lethal UAS course, directed by Army Capt. Rachel Martin and Army Maj. Wolf Amacker. The course consolidates milestones within the Army's UAS community and serves as a hub for education and experimentation.&nbsp; &nbsp; "The more testing and experimentation we do, the less we must teach theoretically and the more we can back claims with real data," La Torre said. "Safe and effective experimentation allows commanders to understand the true nature of the risks they assume with these systems and helps make this training more commonplace."&nbsp; &nbsp; For La Torre, the boundaries are clear: safety and scalability.&nbsp; &nbsp; "We must safely conduct training, testing and experimentation," he said. "We also must make sure everything we do is exportable to other units so they can do the same. I'm confident what we've done is scalable, and the lethal UAS course at Fort Rucker will centralize the growth of lethal UAS engagements while also serving as a hub for subject matter experts to gather and exchange lessons learned."&nbsp;

Paratroopers Make History With Army's First Drone-on-Drone Strike

Product News

28 August 2025
More than 3,500 commercial drone professionals from over 70 countries will gather at <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, the world&rsquo;s leading commercial drone trade show and conference, to connect, collaborate, and explore the newest developments in drone technology, applications, and operations. The event takes place at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas from September 2-4, 2025.
&ldquo;Commercial UAV Expo continues to be the place where the industry comes together, and this year the conversations carry even greater weight as it is the first major industry gathering since the FAA released its long-awaited Part 108 BVLOS NPRM,&rdquo; said Lee Corkhill, Group Event Director, Commercial UAV Expo. &ldquo;With the proposed rule currently in the 60-day public comment period, the timing of Commercial UAV Expo gives professionals a unique opportunity to learn what Part 108 means for their operations, ask questions directly, and engage in critical dialogue that will help shape the future of the drone industry.&rdquo;
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/XaJSKC6iFfzBryPaBpXhq35RIGZwXOmzGm1X3sut.jpg" alt="" width="680" height="453" />
The <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Conference Program</a> will feature <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/speakers/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">140+ speakers</a> delivering practical, actionable education with a strong focus on regulatory updates, BVLOS operations, autonomy, AI, and real-world case studies. Attendees can also take advantage of UAV role-based itineraries designed to maximize value for specific job functions, including:
<ul>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=175&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Airspace Management Itinerary</a></li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=173&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drone Pilot Itinerary</a></li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=174&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Project Manager Itinerary</a></li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=182&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Public Safety Itinerary</a></li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=177&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Service Provider Itinerary</a></li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=176&amp;locations=&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Surveyor Itinerary</a></li>
</ul>
<h5>Special Features at Commercial UAV Expo 2025 Include</h5>
<ul>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/indoor-airspace/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Indoor Airspace</a>: A new dedicated demonstration zone on the exhibit hall floor where attendees can experience UAV hardware and software in action.</li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=193" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pilot Hub</a>: A gathering place for drone pilots at all levels to gain insights into operations, training, and business expansion, plus resources to build successful careers.</li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/droneresponders-public-safety-summit/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit</a>: A two-day program delivering best practices, case studies, and practical insights for public safety UAS professionals.</li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/pilot-institute/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pilot Institute Workshops and Courses</a>: Deep-dive training opportunities including the Cutting Edge Industry Insights: Essentials for Every Drone Pilot workshop, as well as courses that begin with online training and culminate with a live module delivered onsite at the event, designed to help operators grow their businesses and technical expertise.</li>
<li><a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/level-up-lounge/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Level Up Lounge</a>: A dedicated space for professional and brand development, offering 15-minute consultations and resources to strengthen personal and organizational impact.</li>
</ul>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/keynotes/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Keynotes</a> will feature high-level speakers from across industry and government, including former FAA leadership, leading UAV vendors, and enterprise users who will address the regulatory landscape, adoption of autonomy and AI, and strategies for scaling commercial drone programs.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/imwHtyKSNssW3SvR9I4sFTQB5M3biACukZ8F8vxj.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="451" />
The <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://s23.a2zinc.net/clients/diversified/expouav2025/Public/EventMap.aspx?shMode=E&amp;_gl=1*ysuz5q*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NTM3MzQwNTMuQ2p3S0NBand2NXpFQmhCd0Vpd0FPZzJZS0c1RXoyMENUWUhubTFLNlFEelBzcVVzOEFXNkdPeG5XcTVMWFpFRWtuOTMzTU1qVnpvNUR4b0MwRDhRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MzA0OTA4MTg5LjE3NTE2NDkxMDAuMjMzOTg5MzUuMTc1NDU4ODM4Mi4xNzU0NTkwMzUz*_ga*MTg2MDY4NzQ5NS4xNzUxNjQ5MTAx*_ga_JYX9985N6Z*czE3NTYyMzYwNDIkbzExMSRnMSR0MTc1NjIzNjMzNiRqNjAkbDAkaDIxMzgwMDczMDQ." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exhibit Hall</a> will feature more than <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://exhibitors.expouav.com/exhibitors?_gl=1*16lnlh3*_gcl_au*ndu3mtezmdq3lje3nti2nzy0odm.&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">225 exhibitors</a> showcasing cutting-edge solutions from leading vendors, while additional programming on the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/conference-program/?taxonomies=189&amp;utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Summit Stage</a> will spotlight new products, case studies, and interactive discussions. More than <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/supporting-partners/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">300 associations and media organizations</a> have signed on as event supporters, underscoring Commercial UAV Expo&rsquo;s position as the premier event for anyone integrating and operating commercial UAS.
Additional event features include Exhibitor Showcases, Roundtables, Welcome Reception, Networking Happy Hour, Pitch the Press, and more&mdash;making Commercial UAV Expo the must-attend annual gathering for the global drone community.
&nbsp;
<h5 style="text-align: center;">Registration is still open&mdash;secure your spot today at <a style="color: #ba372a; background-color: #f1c40f;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.expouav.com</a>.</h5>
<h5>&nbsp;</h5>
<h5>About Commercial UAV Expo</h5>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, presented by <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.commercialuavnews.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=cuav-expo-pre-event&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV News</a>, is an international conference and expo exclusively focused on commercial UAS integration and operation. The event will take place September 2-4, 2025, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV. Commercial UAV Expo is produced by Diversified&rsquo;s technology portfolio, which also includes Commercial UAV News, Commercial UAV Forum, Geo Week, Geo Week Newsletter, Geo Business (UK), and Digital Construction Week (UK).

Commercial UAV Expo Hosts Global Drone Professionals, Sept 2-4

27 August 2025
<a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://oem.flir.com/" href="https://oem.flir.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3">Teledyne FLIR OEM</a>, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated and the global leader in enabling thermal imaging innovation, today announced<a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://acsl-usa.com/" href="https://acsl-usa.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">&nbsp;ACSL</a>,&nbsp;Japan&rsquo;s leading drone manufacturer, as the newest collaborator in the <a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://oem.flir.com/learn/thermal-by-flir-program/" href="https://oem.flir.com/learn/thermal-by-flir-program/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5">Thermal by FLIR</a>&nbsp;program. This initiative supports the integration of Teledyne FLIR OEM thermal camera modules and provides go-to-market support for the resulting cutting-edge products.&nbsp;
ACSL&rsquo;s <a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://acsl-usa.com/product/" href="https://acsl-usa.com/product/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6">SAMO</a>&nbsp;thermal payload features the NDAA-compliant and International Traffic in Arms (ITAR)-free <a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://oem.flir.com/products/hadron-640/" href="https://oem.flir.com/products/hadron-640/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="7">Hadron 640R</a>&nbsp;dual thermal-visible camera module, which combines a 64MP visible camera with the 640x512 Boson&reg;radiometric thermal camera module. As part of the collaboration, SAMO will also incorporate FLIR&rsquo;s patented MSX <a style="color: #ba372a;" title="https://www.flir.com/instruments/multi-spectral-dynamic-imaging/?srsltid=AfmBOooRdbqy-wgbDwd__DW1f9eUGXF7CL1digpE5wWpObcutBGpkRwq" href="https://www.flir.com/instruments/multi-spectral-dynamic-imaging/?srsltid=AfmBOooRdbqy-wgbDwd__DW1f9eUGXF7CL1digpE5wWpObcutBGpkRwq" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="8">Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging</a>&nbsp;technology, which embosses visual data to deliver enhanced, detail-rich thermal imagery in real time.&nbsp;
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/Dj0swILD5PAK94yZqDJYdrj707jlOyooXBgekjA3.png" alt="" width="676" height="380" />
&ldquo;Collaborating with Teledyne FLIR OEM is a natural and significant step for ACSL,&rdquo; said Cynthia Huang, CEO of ACSL Inc. &ldquo;As the U.S. drone landscape evolves, our commitment remains focused on delivering field-ready UAS solutions. The SAMO payload brings advanced, proven imaging capabilities to drone operators nationwide. Paired with our new TAITEN smart controller and upgraded SOTEN platform, operators will be empowered to work smarter, faster, and with greater confidence.&rdquo;&nbsp;
ACSL&rsquo;s flagship SOTEN drone is purpose-built for public safety, disaster response, inspection, and surveying applications. Designed and manufactured in Japan, SOTEN is a foldable, NDAA-compliant drone that meets stringent security and performance standards, including ISO15408 certification. Engineered for demanding missions, it features an IP43 weather-resistant design, a 25-minute flight time, and a one-touch swappable payload system for rapid imaging transitions. Lightweight and intuitive to operate, the SOTEN delivers secure and efficient aerial capabilities&mdash;even in the most challenging environments.&nbsp;
&ldquo;With growing concerns around drone security, ACSL offers a robust NDAA-compliant solution with versatile payload options tailored to mission needs,&rdquo; said Mike Walters, vice president, product development, Teledyne FLIR OEM. &ldquo;ACSL&rsquo;s rapid innovation is impressive, and we&rsquo;re excited to continue ongoing collaboration on next-generation drone payloads featuring our latest thermal camera modules and Prism ISP features.&rdquo;&nbsp;
To learn more about ACSL&rsquo;s SOTEN drone and SAMO payload, visit the ACSL <a style="color: #ba372a;" title="http://www.acsl-usa.com/product" href="http://www.acsl-usa.com/product" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="10">www.acsl-usa.com/product</a>. See the SOTEN drone and SAMO payload in person at ACSL&rsquo;s booth #917 during the Commercial UAV Expo, September 2&ndash;4, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.&nbsp;
<h5>About Teledyne FLIR OEM &nbsp;</h5>
Teledyne FLIR OEM, a Teledyne Technologies company, is the world&rsquo;s largest volume manufacturer of ITAR-free and NDAA-compliant infrared (IR) sensor and camera modules. As a vertically integrated supplier, Teledyne FLIR OEM delivers thousands of thermal imaging modules and related software tools daily for defense, automotive, uncrewed, professional, and artificial intelligence applications designed to improve decision support and situational awareness. Teledyne FLIR OEM enables life-changing thermal sensing so the world can do and see more.
<h5>About ACSL&nbsp;</h5>
ACSL is the largest Japanese drone maker, renowned for its innovation and commitment to quality. With a focus on delivering advanced, reliable, and user-friendly drone solutions, ACSL continues to set industry standards and exceed customer expectations. ACSL offers a variety of different drone systems, including the flagship SOTEN drone. ACSL Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of ACSL.&nbsp;

Japan's ACSL is New Thermal by FLIR Collaborator 

27 August 2025
Sneak peeks of China's loyal wingman drones&mdash;such as the FH-97, which was first seen as a model at 2021's Zhuhai Airshow&mdash;are starting to emerge ahead of Bejing's 2025 military parade on September 3.
Satellite images of preparation for the event appear to reveal at least five loyal wingman UAVs&mdash;named "Collaborative Combat Aircraft" (CCA) by the United States Air Force&mdash;slated for public introduction. Obviously, China isn't revealing any details at this time, but experts assume these new drones may promise higher performance than previous models, as well as enhanced autonomy. Current images seem to show some drones without tails and modified delta wings, others with slender noses and wider bodies, and, given the perspective of the UAVs on the transport trucks, larger sizes overall.&nbsp;
If China is "sizing up" its combat drone fleet, it would be following a different concept from some other militaries, who are exploring smaller, less-expensive drones&mdash;especially after the success of Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb attack against Russian airfields with small Osa drones.
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<h5 class="article-paragraph skip">See a Preview of China's Military Parade</h5>
<iframe style="width: 670px; height: 377px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGw7UqXCEO8?si=BPQ0_kGLs35PkKRQ" width="670" height="377" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
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<h5 class="article-paragraph skip">What is China's Loyal Wingman Program?</h5>
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Spotted! Chinese Next-Gen Loyal Wingman Drones

25 August 2025
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/6tTmxiotTaZrkVsAdNmZjeBedzgUPcjpOBxJtLvr.png" alt="" width="107" height="102" />
<a href="https://thedroningcompany.com/pilot/adrian-sarraff" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By Adrian Sarraff</a>
I'm a professional drone pilot and founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cybr_drones?igsh=MTFlczc0aTByc3U3Mw%3D%3D&amp;utm_source=qr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cybr Drones LLC</a>, based in South Florida. My passion for photography began long before my drone career took flight&mdash;I&rsquo;ve been capturing images since 2007, focusing much of my early work on street scenes and architectural photography. Photography for me has always been about storytelling and finding new perspectives. That passion eventually intersected with technology, and together they pushed me into a field I could never have imagined would become my career.
In 2013, I got my hands on the original DJI Phantom 1, a simple white quadcopter that required me to strap a GoPro action camera to its base. At the time, I didn&rsquo;t realize how revolutionary that moment would be. Suddenly, I had the ability to capture the world from above&mdash;rooftops, skylines, and landscapes that were once impossible to photograph.
As a hobbyist living in Fort Lauderdale, I was drawn to the beauty of South Florida&rsquo;s sunrises. Every morning, I wake up before dawn, head to the beach, and launch my drone just in time to watch the sun break over the Atlantic Ocean. Those golden skies and the glow over the east coast inspired me daily. For me, drone flying became much more than a hobby&mdash;it was an artistic outlet, a way to combine my technical interests with my creativity.
At the time, my professional career was in Information Technology. I worked as a system administrator for a manufacturing company in Miami, troubleshooting systems, maintaining networks, and ensuring up time for critical operations. Outside of work, I had another passion: competitive gaming. Traveling to large events, I competed against some of the best players in the country.
When I look back, it&rsquo;s clear that my lifelong passion for technology, whether through IT, gaming, or gadgets&mdash;was always preparing me for drone piloting. You could say I&rsquo;ve always been a &ldquo;tech nerd.&rdquo; Drones allowed me to merge these worlds: technical precision, visual storytelling, and the adrenaline of competition, all in one pursuit.
When the Covid 19 pandemic hit, life changed for everyone. My company, like many others, cut back on its workforce. My position was eliminated. Instead of letting it defeat me, I saw it as an opportunity. For the first time, I decided to chase my passion full-time rather than remain just another employee.
I began offering my skills as a real estate photographer. I worked with local Realtors, providing professional-quality photos of their listings. Real estate photography pushed me to improve not just my shooting but also my editing skills and business communication. Realtors needed fast turnaround times, so I mastered efficient post-production workflows to deliver polished images quickly.
Marketing myself was another challenge as I spent months visiting hundreds of real estate offices, handing out business cards and flyers. I often offered the first photoshoot free as a way to build relationships and prove my value. Over time, this effort paid off&mdash;I built a solid reputation in the South Florida real estate community.
But I quickly realized that in South Florida&rsquo;s competitive real estate industry, standing out required more than just ground-level photography. Realtors needed something extra to make their listings pop. That &ldquo;something&rdquo; was aerial photography. I invested in a new drone&mdash;the DJI Mavic 2 Pro&mdash;which offers professional-grade aerial imaging.
From there, I knew I needed to go all-in. To fly commercially, I studied for and passed the FAA Part 107 exam, officially becoming a licensed drone pilot in March 2023. Shortly after, I upgraded to the DJI Mavic 3, which became my daily workhorse. With these tools, I was ready to expand my business beyond real estate.
One day, a friend working at a construction company asked me to capture images of a concrete pour on the 35th floor of a hotel in Miami. That single request opened my eyes to a new world of possibilities. I realized drones could do far more than showcase homes&mdash;they could document construction progress, capture marketing visuals for corporations, and provide data through aerial mapping.
In May 2023, I officially launched Cybr Drones LLC. The focus shifted from just real estate photography to comprehensive aerial services for multiple industries. Soon, I was no longer working only with Realtors&mdash;I was being contracted by major corporations and construction companies.
Some of the clients I&rsquo;ve had the privilege to work with include:
<ul>
<li>Florida Power &amp; Light (FPL)</li>
<li>Moss Construction</li>
<li>KAST Construction</li>
<li>Beauchamp Construction</li>
</ul>
These partnerships allowed me to scale up operations, managing multiple job sites across the state of Florida.
At Cybr Drones, I&rsquo;ve grown beyond basic photography to provide a full suite of aerial solutions, including:
<ul>
<li>Real Estate Photography &amp; Videography &ndash; High-quality listing images, cinematic video tours, and aerial views to help properties stand out.</li>
<li>Construction Progress Monitoring &ndash; Routine aerial updates for contractors, project managers, and investors to visualize milestones and track site development.</li>
<li>Photogrammetry &amp; Mapping &ndash; Accurate aerial mapping, 3D modeling, and volumetric analysis for construction and land development projects.</li>
<li>FPV Flythroughs &ndash; Using agile drones like the DJI Avata 2, I create immersive first-person view videos for marketing, showcasing interiors, showrooms, or construction sites in dynamic ways.</li>
<li>360&deg; Virtual Tours &ndash; Interactive walkthroughs of properties and job sites for marketing and documentation.</li>
<li>Lifestyle &amp; Boating Photography &ndash; Capturing the boating culture, wildlife, and waterfront lifestyle that makes South Florida unique.</li>
<li>Social Media Content Creation &ndash; Short-form video reels, aerial storytelling, and action shots tailored for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.</li>
</ul>
By expanding into these areas, Cybr Drones has become more than a photography service&mdash;it&rsquo;s a creative aerial solutions provider.
To keep pace with client needs, I&rsquo;ve invested in a diverse fleet of drones and technology. My arsenal includes the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, known for its powerful imaging capabilities, and the DJI Avata 2, perfect for FPV cinematic flythroughs. These tools allow me to approach each project with flexibility, whether it&rsquo;s capturing real estate listing, surveying a job site, or producing cinematic videos.
What started as a hobby with a strapped-on GoPro has grown into a thriving business that continues to evolve. Today, Cybr Drones LLC stands as a testament to what passion, persistence, and innovation can achieve across all industries. From real estate agents to multi-million-dollar construction firms, clients trust me to deliver visuals that inspire, inform, and impress. Looking ahead, I plan to expand Cybr Drones&rsquo; footprint even further, offering specialized drone services across Florida and beyond, while continuing to innovate in visual storytelling, aerial data collection, and marketing solutions.
My journey has been anything but ordinary. From IT systems and competitive gaming to chasing sunrises over Fort Lauderdale, every step led me here. Drones gave me a way to merge creativity, technology, and business into one. What began as an escape became a calling&mdash;and now, through Cybr Drones, I get to share that passion with every client I serve.
<h5>Watch</h5>
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&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Pilot's Story: Adrian Sarraff

21 August 2025
By Dawn Zoldi
As autonomous systems increasingly reshape industries and society writ large, a new platform has stepped up to give the global autonomy community its own digital stage. The <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.autonomyglobal.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Autonomy Global (AG)</a> media site has officially expanded to YouTube with the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.youtube.com/@AutonomyGlobal/featured" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Autonomy Global Network (AGN)</a>. Promising to become a leading video hub for industry news, in-depth analysis and engaging video content, this channel is dedicated entirely to the autonomy ecosystem, with an emphasis on drones.
The July launch of AGN marks the latest milestone in an ambitious venture originally envisioned by retired USAF colonel, attorney and tech thought leader <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnzoldi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dawn Zoldi</a>, CEO of <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.p3techconsulting.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">P3 Tech Consulting</a> and Publisher for Autonomy Global.
&ldquo;Autonomy is a global movement,&rdquo; Zoldi explained. &ldquo;Leaders, innovators, and visionaries in this space need a dedicated platform to share knowledge, ideas and cutting-edge developments. That&rsquo;s what AGN provides&mdash;a home for the autonomy ecosystem, accessible to anyone, anywhere.&rdquo;
<h5>A Growing Multimedia Ecosystem</h5>
The new YouTube channel is more than just a video series. It&rsquo;s part of an expanding digital media enterprise under the Autonomy Global Network brand. Earlier this year, AGN rolled out its multilingual online hub, featuring original articles, news updates, podcasts and a curated global event calendar, all offered in 15 languages to serve a truly global audience.
Now, the YouTube component deepens that vision by delivering content in an engaging, on-demand format. In partnership with producer and technical advisor Mike Pehel of UpStreem, AGN intends to blend expert commentary, livestream coverage, educational programming, and exclusive partner collaborations into one cohesive experience&mdash;all tied to the AG website.
According to Zoldi, AGN was a natural next step in the AG evolution. &ldquo;We know that the way people consume information is evolving. Video not only connects on a human level&mdash;it allows us to amplify voices across geographies and disciplines in ways written content alone cannot. AGN&rsquo;s YouTube platform is designed to do just that.&rdquo;
<h5>What Viewers Can Expect</h5>
The AGN YouTube channel contains a dynamic mix of original programming, including:
<ul>
<li>Expert Interviews &ndash; conversations with policymakers, innovators and industry leaders shaping the future of autonomy. </li>
<li>Educational Series &ndash; practical insights into regulatory landscapes, legal frameworks and operational best practices. </li>
<li>Event Coverage &ndash; on-the-ground reporting from global conferences, trade shows and tech showcases. </li>
<li>Community &amp; Tech Spotlights &ndash; profiles of inspiring projects, startups and collaborations in autonomy.</li>
</ul>
Tim Brazzel, a contributor to The Droning Company and host of the AGN channel partner podcast Inspire with Drones, praised AGN&rsquo;s ability to centralize the autonomy conversation. &ldquo;Whether it&rsquo;s advanced air mobility (AAM),&nbsp; ground robotics, maritime autonomy or defense innovation, AGN captures the full spectrum of activity and brings it to one place,&rdquo; he noted. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s incredible fragmentation in how people access autonomy-related content today. AGN solves that problem by bringing it together in one place.&rdquo;
<h5>A Collaborative Channel Powered by Partners</h5>
One of AGN&rsquo;s defining features is its collaborative framework. Instead of functioning as a top-down publisher, AGN has cultivated partnerships with creators, researchers and organizations to co-develop content.
&ldquo;Our mission is not to be the sole voice of autonomy,&rdquo; Zoldi clarified. &ldquo;We want to provide a platform where other authoritative stakeholders have the opportunity to share their voice. That diversity of perspective is what will strengthen the autonomy community worldwide.&rdquo;
To that end, AGN&rsquo;s debut includes a roster of channel partners representing thought leaders and institutions across drones, TAK and other emerging tech. The initial AGN Channel Partner cohort includes:
<ul>
<li>Commercial UAV News Webinars (Carla Lauter)</li>
<li>Uncrewed Views Podcast (Carl Lauter)</li>
<li>InnovateEnergy (Sean Guerre, Energy Drone &amp; Robotics Coalition)</li>
<li>This Week in Drones (David Lewin)</li>
<li>All Things TAK (Zev Nadler)</li>
<li>Xeocast (Bronwyn Morgan)</li>
<li>The Drone Pilot Hangar (Bronwyn Morgan)</li>
<li>Pilots of the Caribbean Podcast (Alan Gabriel)</li>
<li>Geoholics Podcast (Kent Groh and Sean Fabor)</li>
<li>Inspire with Drones (Tim Brazzel IAW The Droning Company)</li>
</ul>
These collaborations are expected to expand steadily, with partner-driven programming filling out the YouTube lineup throughout the year.
For Zev Nadler, an industry strategist, consultant at UAS Strategic and early supporter of the platform with this TAK-focused podcast, this model represents the future of digital engagement. &ldquo;Autonomy is not just a technology field&mdash;it&rsquo;s a cross-disciplinary wave touching policy, ethics, mobility, security and economics. By bringing in varied voices and formats, AGN ensures that someone tuning in from Zurich, Singapore, or San Francisco gets both the global breadth and the local nuance. That&rsquo;s a rare and valuable opportunity.&rdquo;
<h5>Why AGN Matters Now</h5>
Autonomous systems are no longer speculative. From drone delivery trials in the United States and Europe to the rapid rise of autonomous ground vehicles and AI-powered defense solutions, these technologies are shaping real-world infrastructure and policy at an accelerated pace.
With rapid growth comes complexity. National regulations have evolved unevenly, public understanding remains inconsistent and industry developments are scattered across siloed platforms. This combination has made it difficult for even seasoned professionals to stay current.
&ldquo;An engineer working on drones in Dallas shouldn&rsquo;t need to go digging through five different websites and three different podcasts just to understand regulatory impacts out of Canada,&rdquo; said Brazzel. &ldquo;AGN eliminates that scatter effect. It&rsquo;s a one-stop resource.&rdquo;
For stakeholders across logistics, mobility, defense, healthcare, agriculture and urban planning&mdash;the industries where autonomy is making its biggest inroads&mdash;AGN provides both education and visibility.
<h5>Humanizing a Technical Field</h5>
While AGN&rsquo;s emphasis on news and regulatory updates appeals to professionals, its creators also recognize that one of the biggest barriers to public adoption of autonomy is lack of awareness and trust. By leveraging video storytelling formats&mdash;spotlights, interviews, live Q&amp;As&mdash;the platform is designed to introduce a human face behind complex technologies.
&ldquo;Too often autonomy is discussed in abstract terms&mdash;algorithms, airframes, machine learning models,&rdquo; said Nadler. &ldquo;What AGN does is bring the people forward&mdash;the innovators, the regulators, the entrepreneurs building solutions. Storytelling has the power to demystify autonomy and make it relatable.&rdquo;
This human element is what Zoldi believes will drive AGN&rsquo;s long-term impact. &ldquo;Autonomy is changing the way we live, travel and work. But the heart of autonomy is human ingenuity. Through this channel, we&rsquo;re celebrating those who are advancing safe, ethical and visionary solutions for society.&rdquo;
The larger goal, Zoldi noted, is not just media&mdash;but a sustainable network. &ldquo;We view AGN as a movement. It&rsquo;s about fostering collaboration, breaking down silos and accelerating adoption of autonomy worldwide. The YouTube launch is just the beginning.&rdquo;
<h5>The Future of Autonomy, Streaming Now</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/yGBYLxmidkgaAZ4dXoLKdg6JBNz8t2mxu8EVEtMR.jpg" alt="" width="676" height="379" />
With its debut on YouTube, the Autonomy Global Network is positioning itself not merely as another industry media outlet, but as a living, breathing ecosystem. By centralizing access to global voices, regulatory insights and technological thought leadership, AGN represents a significant step forward in how the autonomy sector connects, communicates and grows.
As Brazzel summarized succinctly: &ldquo;Autonomy is the future. And AGN is where that future comes together.&rdquo;
For Zoldi, the significance is personal as well as professional. &ldquo;This project comes from a place of passion and purpose. Autonomy is reshaping our collective future, and AGN is ensuring that every stakeholder&mdash;not just the largest companies&mdash;has a space to share, learn and lead.&rdquo;
Whether you&rsquo;re a policymaker navigating new regulations, a technologist testing innovations or simply a curious viewer wondering how autonomous systems will shape daily life, AGN has made one thing clear: the conversation has a new home&mdash;and it&rsquo;s streaming live.
<h5>Join Us!</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/msX17CNAt1ei5fdXfqU4TGlbGDfOtXGh9RCzgTJX.png" alt="" width="315" height="315" />
<h5>Afterword by Stuart Smith, CEO of The Droning Company</h5>
As someone who has spent years building platforms to amplify voices within the drone and autonomy industries, I understand the critical importance of creating community. Too often, valuable insights, regulatory updates and innovative success stories remain siloed across regions or scattered across countless media sites. That fragmentation holds us back.
The Autonomy Global Network (AGN) changes that. With its expansion to YouTube, AGN creates a centralized stage for thought leaders, creators, and practitioners to connect on a global level. It&rsquo;s not just news; it&rsquo;s storytelling. It&rsquo;s not just education; it&rsquo;s inspiration.
At The Droning Company, we&rsquo;ve always embraced collaboration to propel the industry forward. That&rsquo;s why AGN resonates so strongly with me and with so many of my peers&mdash;it&rsquo;s a unifying voice for an emerging movement that demands collaboration and shared visibility.
I commend Dawn Zoldi and her team for launching this initiative and for building something that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the entire autonomy ecosystem.

The Autonomy Global Network

21 August 2025
The drone industry has rapidly changed and grown over the past several years. What once was considered tools for hobbyists has shifted to become indispensable across multiple sectors like mapping, infrastructure inspections, security, and environmental monitoring.&nbsp;
A drone can do many amazing things. You can use drones to survey construction sites, monitor utilities, or even track wildfires. They&rsquo;ve proven themselves as cost-effective, safe, and highly adaptable tools.
As adoption grows, the demand for skilled, certified, and experienced pilots is rising even faster. Companies need professionals who can adapt to new technologies, meet compliance standards, and lead.
That&rsquo;s why mentorship and continuing education are what you need if you want to succeed in this field.
<h5>Why Mentorship Is Vital in the Drone Industry</h5>
Getting your Part 107 certificate is an exciting milestone, but it&rsquo;s only the beginning. Just because you pass the FAA exam, it doesn&rsquo;t automatically prepare you for the complex situations you&rsquo;ll face in commercial operations.&nbsp;
Maybe you&rsquo;ve already noticed the steep learning curve when flying for clients or tackling technical jobs. That&rsquo;s where mentorship can change everything. A good mentor can shorten that curve and make you successful in the long term.
Here&rsquo;s how it works.
Mentoring bridges the gap: A mentor shows you how to turn theory into practice. You&rsquo;ll learn how to navigate controlled airspace, fine-tune your equipment, and handle client expectations. They help you learn all this with the benefit of real-world experience.
Mentoring promotes best practices: Instead of learning the hard way, you gain lessons from years in the field. A mentor helps you avoid expensive mistakes and develop a professional approach.
Strengthening the industry: When seasoned pilots share what they know, they elevate the entire UAV community. This ripple effect raises standards.
Drone technology evolves too quickly for you to go it alone. With a mentor, you gain the knowledge and skills you need to keep pace with an industry that is showing no signs of slowing down.
<h5>The Importance of Continuing Education</h5>
What you learned two years ago may already be outdated. Regulations change, autonomy expands, and new applications appear constantly. If you want to stay competitive, you have to treat learning as a lifelong commitment.
Here&rsquo;s what ongoing education does for you. First, it keeps you compliant. By staying current with FAA rules and safety standards, every flight you take remains both legal and insurable.&nbsp;
Just as importantly, continuing education helps you to show that you&rsquo;re always current on the newest and best ways to operate flight missions. Clients want pilots who can demonstrate expertise with the latest tools, software, and workflows, and your commitment to learning sets you apart.
Education also opens new doors. Specialized training allows you to move into higher-value niches like mapping, inspections, or enterprise fleet management. These are all areas that pay more and demand advanced skills.&nbsp;
That&rsquo;s why structured training is so valuable. Online courses offer flexibility, but in-person learning delivers the kind of hands-on practice you simply can&rsquo;t get behind a screen.
This is exactly why events like the<a href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Commercial UAV Expo Classes on September 2</a> are so important.&nbsp;
For the first time ever, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://pilotinstitute.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pilot Institute</a> is bringing its most valuable classes offline - live at Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas.
With only 50 seats per workshop, you&rsquo;ll be in a small group where your specific questions get real answers.
Choose from any of the following (includes a Commercial UAV Expo pass):
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/business/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drone business training</a>: Turn your flying ability into a profitable business. Learn how to price projects, manage clients, and grow your operation.
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/mapping/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drone mapping courses</a>: Gain expertise in aerial surveying and data analysis. Companies in construction, agriculture, and energy are actively looking for pilots with these skills.
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/workshop/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drone industry workshops</a>: Work side by side with expert instructors. Practice real workflows, troubleshoot challenges, and walk away ready to apply what you&rsquo;ve learned.
The combination of mentorship, structured coursework, and live workshops will elevate your knowledge as a drone pilot and hone your business sense.
<h5>Turning Skills Into a Sustainable Career</h5>
To build a lasting career, you need to think like a business owner. Flying well is only one aspect of the job; you&rsquo;ll have to know how to market your services, price projects correctly, and deliver results that build long-term client relationships. The problem is that too many talented drone pilots fail to grow because they never learn the business side of the industry.
This is why continuing education and a mentor can help you avoid common pitfalls, like undercharging for your work or overpromising results. Structured training gives you proven strategies for managing contracts, scaling operations, and keeping your business profitable year after year.
If you want to run a drone flight business, you will want courses that focus on drone business operations that show you how to align your flying skills with client needs in industries like construction, energy, and real estate.&nbsp;
The mix of sharp piloting and keen business know-how turns a hobby or side hustle into a sustainable career.
<h5>Building Community Among UAV Professionals</h5>
The drone industry is built on innovation, but its foundation is in its community. When you connect with other pilots, collaborate on projects, and share your experiences, you strengthen the profession as a whole.
Shared knowledge through trading insights and experiences can help solve problems faster and stay ahead of industry trends. A stronger safety culture helps to build up accountability and peer learning. The result of this is improved safety for everyone. And finally, career opportunities can grow through networking at in-person events, which often lead to new contracts, partnerships, or even job offers.
While online forums and virtual courses have their place, nothing can match the impact of face-to-face networking. At an event like the <a href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, pilots can meet mentors, connect with peers, and build lasting professional relationships..
<h5>Preparing for the Next Era of UAV Work</h5>
The next decade will reshape the drone industry in ways that are currently hard to imagine. Technology that we consider &ldquo;futuristic&rdquo; exists in the here and now: artificial intelligence, BVLOS operations, digital twins, and swarm technology. Public safety, logistics, and infrastructure companies are preparing to integrate UAVs on a large scale, and the demand for drone pilots will only grow.
To thrive in this future, you need to approach your career with three pillars in mind. Seek mentorship so you can build on the hard-earned wisdom of those who&rsquo;ve already faced the challenges ahead of you.&nbsp;
Continue investing in education to stay sharp and adapt as technology evolves. And don&rsquo;t forget the importance of community. Share your insights and create strong professional networks that will create opportunities you might never find on your own.
Weave all these elements together and you&rsquo;ll be ready to succeed no matter how quickly the industry changes.
<h5>The Future of UAVs</h5>
The future of UAVs depends on pilots who are willing to mentor, learn, and connect. The most successful drone operators will be those who keep growing and updating their education and skills.
If you&rsquo;re ready to take your skills to the next level, join us at the<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://pilotinstitute.com/cuav/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Commercial UAV Expo</a> on September 2!
It&rsquo;s your chance to learn directly from experts, explore business, mapping, and specialized workshops, and connect with a community that will help you in the years ahead.
Every flight is another step forward. Where you go next depends on how much you&rsquo;re willing to grow.

The Future of Drone Pilots

Above photo: Embry‑Riddle student Nicholas Buckalew launches a Skydio UAV for a research project to survey plant life on Lake Beresford in DeLand, Florida. The research, conducted with Stetson University&rsquo;s Institute of Water and Environmental Resilience, will help to understand the health of the lake. (Photo: Embry‑Riddle/David Massey)
20 August 2025
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<a href="https://news.erau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University</a> researchers are using drones to capture aerial imagery of aquatic vegetation that will be used to train artificial intelligence models to automatically classify plant life and investigate the health of lakes, rivers and other bodies of water.
The project &mdash; which is the Embry‑Riddle team&rsquo;s latest collaboration with&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" title="This link will open in a new window or tab." href="https://www.stetson.edu/other/iwer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stetson University&rsquo;s Institute of Water and Environmental Resilience</a>&nbsp;(IWER) &mdash; employs uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) outfitted with a variety of cameras to find and collect images of aquatic plants along the shoreline of Lake Beresford in DeLand, Florida.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/Gij1FOxi7LP1gn9VsPblLKomOHQO7Z6kWU5P9A0u.png" alt="" width="624" height="412" />
Embry‑Riddle professor Dr. Dan Macchiarella talks to the team before a UAS mission to map Lake Beresford&rsquo;s water lettuce. (Photo: Embry‑Riddle/David Massey)
&ldquo;Our flight missions have been aimed at gathering images to train the AI,&rdquo; said Dr. Dan Macchiarella, professor in the&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://daytonabeach.erau.edu/college-aviation/aeronautical-science" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Aeronautical Science</a>.
The drones scan for water lettuce, which is considered an aggressive invasive weed that can quickly overtake rivers and lakes, crowding out native plants and animals. Dense mats of water lettuce can also restrict water flow and reduce aquatic life.
&ldquo;We started with water lettuce, but we are looking at expanding out beyond that,&rdquo; said Macchiarella. Dr. Parham Ahmady Phoulady, assistant professor in Embry‑Riddle&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://daytonabeach.erau.edu/college-engineering/electrical-engineering-computer-science" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science</a>, is working on the project&rsquo;s AI models.
Tracking the diversity and number of aquatic plants can offer insight into the health of a body of water. Some of the UAS are equipped with multispectral imaging cameras that detect light bands, which can be used to assess plant health. One also has a thermal camera, which can detect temperature differences in Lake Beresford.
&ldquo;There is a theory that there is a spring in that lake,&rdquo; said Macchiarella. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking if we can see a temperature difference to indicate the location of a spring in the lake because a spring is always 72 degrees.&rdquo;
Since 2019, Macchiarella has been working closely with Dr. Jason M. Evans, professor of Environmental Science and Studies and executive director of the IWER at&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" title="This link will open in a new window or tab." href="https://www.stetson.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stetson University</a>&nbsp;in DeLand, to use drones in environmental monitoring,&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://news.erau.edu/headlines/above-the-flooding-high-tech-drones-capture-storm-damage-and-data" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flood mitigation</a>&nbsp;and water quality projects.
&ldquo;Stetson provides environmental science expertise,&rdquo; said Macchiarella. &ldquo;We provide remote sensing from uncrewed aircraft systems and AI expertise.&rdquo;
Their research has received funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA). They have also partnered with the&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://news.erau.edu/headlines/turtle-trackers-fly-drones-out-of-sight" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brevard Zoo</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://news.erau.edu/headlines/researchers-plan-drone-study-of-green-stormwater-solutions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">city of Cape Canaveral</a>.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve done research from the Atlantic Ocean to the St. Johns River,&rdquo; said Macchiarella.
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The UAS mission is to capture aerial imagery of aquatic vegetation that will be used to train AI models to automatically classify plant life and support environmental research. (Photo: Embry‑Riddle/David Massey)
<h5>With Drones, Students Study the Environment</h5>
Macchiarella said that the team of students working on the project is gaining &ldquo;real-world experience&rdquo; at Lake Beresford.
The team includes Nicholas Buckalew, who is pursuing a&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://erau.edu/degrees/master/uncrewed-systems" target="_blank" rel="noopener">master&rsquo;s degree in Uncrewed Systems</a>. He took a class with Macchiarella as an undergraduate and found he loved UAS operations. He now runs his own drone company, Pallas Drone Services, which does aerial photography, videography, mapping and inspection.
&ldquo;UAS is definitely the future. The technology is constantly evolving, and it&rsquo;s one of the fastest-growing industries in the world right now,&rdquo; said Buckalew, who is from Houston. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m excited to see where it&rsquo;s going to go.&rdquo;
Belle Christianson, a senior majoring in&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://erau.edu/degrees/bachelor/uncrewed-aircraft-systems" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Uncrewed Aircraft Systems</a>, said the project was her first time doing UAS research work. The past two summers, she has participated in study abroad trips in Argentina and Chile. Both were led by Macchiarella and focused on UAS.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m also learning how to research independently, build my own skills and develop flight plans,&rdquo; said Christianson.
Tyler Deal, a UAS graduate assistant at Embry‑Riddle, has worked on several UAS projects that look to capture the environment. He was involved in a UAS project focused on developing stormwater solutions for Cape Canaveral. In Argentina, he also conducted agricultural and environmental research using UAS.
&ldquo;I just like being at the forefront of technology and innovation, and Embry‑Riddle was the best place for it I could find,&rdquo; said Deal, who was also an undergraduate and has completed UAS internships at Lumbee Tribe Enterprises and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" title="This link will open in a new window or tab." href="https://censystech.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Censys Technologies</a>. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve flown a wide variety of drones, and I certainly wouldn&rsquo;t have made it this far without all of these experiences.&rdquo;
He also mentioned that he likes how UAS can be employed across various industries for crucial insights that would otherwise be extremely difficult and costly to obtain.
&ldquo;I like taking the data collected by the drones and processing it into something meaningful in the end,&rdquo; said Deal. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s really valuable in any field.&rdquo;
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Drones, AI and Embry‑Riddle

19 August 2025
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/brazzel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By&nbsp;Timothy Brazzel</a>
In September 2025, I&rsquo;ll be boarding a flight from Southern California to South Korea &mdash; not for vacation, but for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to represent the United States at the International FIDA World Cup Drone Soccer Competitions.
For those who may not know, drone soccer is a fast-growing international sport that combines aviation, robotics, and competitive teamwork. Players pilot drones encased in protective spheres, navigating through aerial &ldquo;goals&rdquo; in high-energy matches that are as exciting to watch as they are to play. It&rsquo;s not just a sport &mdash; it&rsquo;s a movement inspiring students and communities to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in a whole new way.
<h5 class="p1">Why This Matters</h5>
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/piwfuCSrfUk?si=FEQSVeC_0nAbGXux" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Representing the U.S. on the world stage is more than just a personal milestone. This competition is an opportunity to: - Showcase U.S. drone talent to an international audience. - Build global relationships within the drone and robotics communities. - Inspire young people to get involved in STEM and aviation.
I&rsquo;ll be documenting the entire journey &mdash; from travel, to behind-the-scenes moments, to the intense drone soccer matches &mdash; and sharing it all with my audience through an in-depth video feature. My goal is to make you feel like you were right there with me in South Korea.
<h5 class="p1">How You Can Help</h5>
Traveling to an event like this comes with significant expenses &mdash; flights, lodging, meals, and equipment needs. I&rsquo;ve set up a GoFundMe campaign to help make this trip possible, and I would be deeply grateful for your support.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/qW8qkLoKlTTYMw86gC05I583S81wa9jUl3Dt8Al9.png" alt="" width="307" height="307" />
Every donation, no matter the amount, brings us one step closer to representing the U.S. and sharing this incredible story with the world. If you&rsquo;re unable to give financially, simply sharing the campaign with others is a powerful way to help.
&nbsp;
Here is a direct link to Tim's GoFundMe campaign: <a style="color: #e03e2d;" title="Donate Here" href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-timothy-brazzels-journey-to-south-korea/cl/o?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&amp;utm_content=amp13_t1&amp;utm_medium=customer&amp;utm_source=copy_link&amp;lang=en_US&amp;attribution_id=sl%3A4603ea2e-7ecf-4e96-bdd4-f1f23b976b9f&amp;ts=1755629939">Donate Here</a>
&nbsp;
<h5 class="p1">Final Thoughts</h5>
This journey isn&rsquo;t just about me. It&rsquo;s about representing our country, inspiring the next generation, and showing the world what&rsquo;s possible when passion, technology, and teamwork come together. Let&rsquo;s make history &mdash; together.
<h5 class="p2">About TImothy Brazzel</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/goHcEk5B4Yu6rOxZqDoTDZspqt3KJ5qyD2heuCDH.png" alt="" width="185" height="135" />
I&rsquo;m a Part 107 certified commercial drone operator, video solutions specialist, and columnist for The Droning Company. Over the past three years, I&rsquo;ve had the privilege of working alongside industry leaders such as Skip Fredricks (Hollywood Drones) and Tim Ingram, CEO of FIDA USA and Camp of Champs. These experiences have sharpened my skills in drone cinematography, videography, and storytelling &mdash; and have fueled my passion for bringing the world of drones to wider audiences.

Taking U.S. Drone Soccer to the World Stage

19 August 2025
The world of commercial and enterprise drones is one of constant evolution, where cutting-edge hardware and software advancements propel industries forward. However, for every great leap in drone technology, there is an equally critical need for reliable, efficient support systems to keep these machines in the air. 
<a href="https://www.coloradodronechargers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Colorado Drone Chargers</a> (CDC), a leader in power solutions for professional drone fleets, is proud to announce the latest additions to its product lineup: the DJI Matrice 4T Portable Rapid Charging System (PRCS) and the Parrot ANAFI UKR PRCS. These new systems are designed to maximize flight time and operational efficiency, ensuring that drone pilots and their teams can stay focused on the mission, not on battery life.
<h5>Introducing the DJI Matrice 4T Portable Rapid Charging System</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/xr5laiVLxcbKQSIdSp7bGHduYbmIHpa5S39jfYWV.png" alt="" width="485" height="309" />
Built to support the advanced capabilities of the DJI Matrice 4T drone, the new PRCS is an essential tool for operators in public safety, inspection, and other demanding fields. Designed for maximum portability and rapid deployment, this charging system is a game-changer for extended field operations. It can simultaneously charge four DJI Matrice 4T Smart Flight Batteries and two USB accessories, providing a complete power hub in a single, rugged package.
One of the standout features of the DJI Matrice 4T PRCS is its innovative charging control system. Pilots can now select from three distinct charging percentages, offering a level of battery management previously unavailable in Colorado Drone Chargers&rsquo; portable chargers:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">50% for Battery Storage: This mode is perfect for long-term battery health, charging batteries to a level ideal for storage and transportation, extending their overall lifespan.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">90% for Rapid Charging: When time is of the essence, this mode provides the fastest possible charge, getting batteries from 20% to 90% in an average of 60 minutes. It's the ideal choice for missions requiring a quick turnaround between flights while maintaining optimum battery health.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">100% for a Complete Charge: For a full-power mission, the 100% charge mode ensures every battery is fully topped off and ready to go.</li>
</ul>
This advanced charging functionality, combined with safe voltage and temperature management, multi-fan cooling, and a 100% duty cycle, makes the Matrice 4T PRCS a robust and reliable solution for any environment. Housed in an impact-resistant, watertight, and dustproof hard case, it is built to withstand the rigors of field work.
<h5>Unleashing the Power of the Parrot ANAFI UKR PRCS</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/3cX2pcFFREN9XVUyWpQdDuRErkNA1tllbj4MQE4b.png" alt="" width="660" height="420" />
For pilots utilizing the Parrot ANAFI UKR, Colorado Drone Chargers has developed a dedicated PRCS to meet the unique needs of this new, versatile drone. This system is engineered to deliver rapid, reliable power, allowing operators to get more from their ANAFI UKR fleet with fewer batteries. Like its DJI counterpart, this system can charge four batteries and two USB accessories simultaneously, including a USB-A and a USB-C port, for total power convenience on the go.
The Parrot ANAFI UKR PRCS delivers impressive performance, with an average charge time of 65minutes to get batteries from 20% to 90%. Its compact and lightweight design (just 8.6 lbs without batteries) is perfect for tactical and on-the-go missions where every pound matters. The charger is housed in a durable hard case that provides protection from impact, water, and dust, ensuring its longevity in even the toughest conditions. Its ability to be powered by various pure and modified sine wave inverters and generators further enhances its versatility,.
Both the DJI Matrice 4T and the Parrot ANAFI UKR PRCS exemplify Colorado Drone Chargers' commitment to providing professional-grade charging solutions that push the boundaries of performance and reliability.
<h5>About Colorado Drone Chargers</h5>
Based in Colorado Springs and founded in 2017, Colorado Drone Chargers (CDC) is committed to giving drone users more flight time with less batteries. CDC offers drone charging systems for industry-leading commercial drones, and is committed to providing the fastest and most efficient charging solutions on the market. CDC charging systems charge multiple batteries and a flight controller simultaneously at record speeds, and chargers are designed to be durable and portable for the most remote and rugged environments.
&nbsp;

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