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21 February 2025
&ldquo;One of the first things we did when we started the company was go to Ukraine, and we were told if we could not make 5,000 drones per month, we were essentially useless,&rdquo; says <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.neros.tech/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neros</a> co-founder and CEO Soren Monroe-Anderson. &ldquo;So we set out with this in mind.&rdquo;
The challenge and the goal seems to have worked out for Neros, as the U.S. company is now contracted to deliver 6,000 of its Archer FPV attack drones to Ukraine over 6 months. Part of an international campaign to supply drones to Ukraine, the Neros contract represents possibly the highest rate for any American drone producer.
The Archer is an 8&rdquo; FPV&mdash;which Neros claims &ldquo;exceeds state of the art performance&rdquo;&mdash;that can carry a 4.5-pound warhead to a range of 12 miles or more. The drone is designed to fly night and day, as well as in unfavorable weather conditions. To prevent jamming&mdash;which can prevent a drone from hitting its target&mdash;the Archer operates on multiple control frequencies and includes a wide-band video transmitter.
&ldquo;Jamming is a problem for everyone, including us, but we have shown very strong results,&rdquo; says Soren-Anderson. &ldquo;Because we design all our radios ourselves, and have been learning from what works in Ukraine for over a year, we are using a completely different setup than other U.S. drone companies.&rdquo;
The Ukraine contract does not include payloads, as the Ukrainian combatants plan to use their own, locally manufactured warheads&mdash;although Monroe-Anderson appears to feel that may be a mistake.
&ldquo;Neros is working on purpose-built, lethal payloads with our partner, Kraken Kinetics,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;We've seen that the system as a whole is much more performant when the drone and warhead are designed together, so we've put a large priority on this effort.&rdquo;
The Neros Archer is significantly less expensive to acquire than other small drones on the BlueUAS list that identifies models approved for purchase by U.S, government agencies&mdash;which also makes it attractive to Ukraine forces. First, the 6,000 drones are being purchased for Ukraine by the International Drone Capability Coalition&mdash;an organization that hardly has a U.S. Pentagon-sized budget. Secondly, training accidents and battle deployments are less of a concern when not losing expensive hardware.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We are extremely focused on making the most capable and manufacturable FPV system in the Western world,&rdquo; says Soren Anderson. &ldquo;Our adversaries can produce millions of FPVs, and right now, the U.S. military is way behind most of the world in using FPV drones. We want to fix this.&rdquo;
<h5>Learn More</h5>
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Neros Wins Contract to Supply Ukraine with combat UAVs

Trending News

21 February 2025
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Above photo courtesy of NASA.
The <a href="https://cce.nasa.gov/firesense/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NASA FireSense</a> project has added two sensors to its Alta X quadcopter to help operational agencies with better wildland fire management.&nbsp;
The enhancements are&nbsp;a radiosonde for measuring weather conditions&mdash;currently in use by the National Weather Service&mdash;and an anemometer that tracks wind speed and direction. Anemometers are usually deployed at weather stations and airports.
The localized, real-time data provided by drones are invaluable for helping fire crews forecast how to approach fire lines and community protection, while simultaneously reducing environmental and financial costs.&nbsp;
NASA researchers had joined together in Missoula, Montana, during August 2024, to evaluate new technologies for micrometeorology, or localized weather forecasting. This gathering apparently helped devise the value of attaching wind sensors to the Alta X drone to help predict the behavior of a fire.
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&ldquo;Ensuring the new technology is easily adoptable by operational agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the National Weather Service was a primary goal of the Montana campaign,&rdquo; said Jacquelyn Shuman, FireSense project scientist at NASA&rsquo;s Ames Research Center in California&rsquo;s Silicon Valley.
To that end, the Alta X drone was chosen for sensor integration by the team because the U.S. Forest Service currently has a fleet of the drones, as well as trained drone pilots.
&ldquo;Anemometers are everywhere, but are usually stationary,&rdquo; said Robert McSwain, FireSense UAS lead, based at NASA&rsquo;s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. &ldquo;We are taking a sensor type that is already used all over the world, and giving it wings.&rdquo;
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The two sensors mounted on the NASA Alta X to hopefully better predict fire and smoke behaviorsare a radiosonde (left) and an anemometer (right). Photo courtesy of NASA.
Drones offer valuable fire-control data, because they can be flown to continue updating measurements over a precise location as conditions change.&nbsp;Fire fighters on the ground can use this real-time information to make quick decisions about where to send resources.
&ldquo;Drones are not meant to replace the weather balloons,&rdquo; said Jennifer Fowler, FireSense&rsquo;s project manager at Langley. &ldquo;A weather balloon is going to be a one-off, and the attached sensor won&rsquo;t be recovered. The instrumented drone, on the other hand, can be flown repeatedly. The goal is to create a drop-in solution to get more frequent, localized data for wildfires&mdash;not to replace all weather forecasting.&rdquo;
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NASA FireSense Project Upgrades Drones

19 February 2025
AZDroneFest Film Festival and UAS Expo, Arizona&rsquo;s premier drone film festival, returns for its sixth year on March 15, 2025, at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix. This highly anticipated event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and brings together drone enthusiasts, filmmakers, and industry professionals for an unforgettable day of aerial innovation, education, and entertainment.
<h5 class="p3">Our Mission</h5>
At AZDroneFest, our mission is to educate, promote, cultivate, and celebrate the art of aerial cinematography. We accomplish our mission by bringing together pilots from various industries and expertise, fostering an environment where innovation and creativity thrive. We believe that by coming together, we can be inspired and learn from each other, regardless of how we use drones. Through hands-on experiences, expert-led discussions, and international film screenings, AZDroneFest provides an opportunity for all participants to grow, learn, and be inspired by one another.
<h5 class="p3">A Free Family Event to Inspire and Educate</h5>
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AZDroneFest is designed as a free, family-friendly event, offering a unique opportunity for attendees of all ages to explore the latest drone technology, witness thrilling live demonstrations, and engage with experts in the field. Whether you are a seasoned drone pilot,an aspiring filmmaker, or just curious about aerial technology, there is something for everyone at this year's festival.
The event will feature drone racing, obstacle courses, drone delivery, rescue operations, and professional filming drones in action. These engaging demonstrations will showcase the diverse applications of drone technology and highlight its increasing importance in various industries, from entertainment and filmmaking to search-and-rescue operations and commercial applications.
At AZDroneFest, FPV pilots will showcase their incredible talents. Attendees will witness drones navigating obstacle courses, racing and performing breathtaking aerial maneuvers. Whether you&rsquo;re a fan of drone racing or new to FPV, this segment of the festival promises thrilling, fast-paced action that highlights the precision and skill of today&rsquo;s top FPV pilots.
While general admission is free, VIP access is available for a fee, allowing attendees to participate in exclusive keynote sessions and panel discussions with national industry experts from aerospace, UAS, and drone cinematography.
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AZDroneFest is proud to present an outstanding lineup of speakers and panel discussions featuring experts from across the commercial UAS industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from professionals at The Pilot Institute, Desert Rotor, Sonoran Desert Institute, and the Drone Service Providers Alliance, who will discuss the latest advancements and challenges in the commercial drone sector.The Phoenix Fire Department, Casa Grande Police Department, and Regional Fire and Rescue Department will provide key insights into how UAS technology is being used to enhance public safety and better protect our communities. These experts will share real-world experiences on how drones are aiding emergency response, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations.
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For those interested in aerial cinematography, renowned cinematographers from Reel Bros, Flying Robot, and Jeremiah Davis will be on hand to discuss the evolving role of drones in filmmaking. They will provide valuable insights into how drone technology is being leveraged to capture stunning visuals, improve storytelling, and push creative boundaries. Additionally, award-winning filmmakers Tom Middleton (joining remotely from England) and Marcus Moeller (joining from Florida) will share stories of some of their most challenging drone cinematography projects, offering attendees a chance to gain unique perspectives on the global use of aerial technology in filmmaking.
<h5 class="p3">Celebrating Innovation in Aerial Cinematography</h5>
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Since its inception, AZDroneFest has served as a platform to celebrate and elevate aerial cinematography and the rapidly evolving UAS industry. This year&rsquo;s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring an exciting lineup of films from aroundthe world, a diverse range of exhibitors from all aspects of the drone industry, and industry-leading speakers sharing insights on cutting-edge drone technology and innovation.
Festival director Chris Tinard expressed his excitement about this year's event, saying: "There&rsquo;s so much innovation taking place among amateur and professional drone users, and this event is an opportunity to highlight the best of the best. We aim to recognize excellence and inspire attendees of all ages at this free family event.&rdquo;
From breathtaking film screenings to hands-on experiences with the latest drone technology, AZDroneFest 2025 is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about drones, cinematography, and technological advancements.
<h5 class="p3">Exciting Categories &amp; Global Recognition</h5>
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The festival showcases talent through various competition categories, each designed to highlight creative storytelling, technical expertise, and the power of aerial perspectives.
Participants submitted entries in many categories such as:
Narrative Films &ndash; Aerial cinematography in feature films or documentaries
Showreels &ndash; Highlighting a filmmaker's best aerial work
Still Photography &ndash; Recognizing excellence in drone-captured imagery
FPV (First-Person View) Cinematography &ndash; Showcasing high-speed, precision drone flying skills
Industrial Applications &ndash; Featuring aerial images used in construction, inspection, and commercial industries
New Drone Pilot &ndash; Celebrating pilots with less than one year of flying experience
Arizona Category &ndash; A special competition for filmmakers from Arizona
Submissions will be carefully evaluated by a distinguished panel of award-winning judges, which includes renowned drone pilots and industry experts. These judges bring a wealth of experience and global perspectives, ensuring that only the most outstanding achievements in aerial cinematography are recognized.Winners of AZDroneFest 2025 will receive international recognition, with awards shipped to winners worldwide. Previous winners have come from countries such as Turkey, South Korea, Australia, France, Greece, and the United States, including filmmakers from Alaska, Colorado, and Arizona. The event&rsquo;s global reach has helped place its awards in the hands of some of the most talented drone filmmakers across the world.
<h5 class="p3">A Film Festival Showcasing Global and Local Talent</h5>
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With films from eight different countries, AZDroneFest features some of the best aerial filmmakers in the world, while also providing a platform for local talent to shine. Award-winning filmmaker Chris Tangey from Australia is a multiple-time AZDroneFest winner in the Landscape and Narrative categories with his film Firehawk. Similarly, Danny McGee has won three awards in the FPV and Landscape categories for his incredible film capturing the volcanic eruption in Iceland. Phoenix-based drone pilot and filmmaker Saunders Staley from Flying Robot has won awards every year since the festival&rsquo;s inception&mdash;earning five awards across four different categories. Not only is Saunders the most decorated filmmaker in AZDroneFest history, but he also volunteers each year to speak on various panels and demonstrate his incredible drones in action.
The festival&rsquo;s New Drone Pilot category is specifically designed to recognize pilots with a year or less of experience flying, providing emerging creators with an opportunity to be celebrated for their work. One inspiring example is Louisa Royer, who won the 2023 Best New Drone Pilot Award and subsequently became the Guinness Book of World Records&rsquo; youngest drone videographer (female) at the age of 8 years and 258 days. Louisa&rsquo;s passion for drone filmmaking started young, as she shared: &ldquo;I asked for a drone as a gift because I love science, and it seemed like a fun way to explore the world from a different viewpoint."
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Louisa Royer
Her story is just one of many that illustrate how AZDroneFest is helping to foster the next generation of aerial filmmakers, encouraging creativity and technical skill development in drone cinematography.
<h5 class="p3">Industry Engagement &amp; Sponsorship Opportunities</h5>
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As the premier drone-focused event in Arizona, AZDroneFest attracts a wide range of industry leaders, businesses, and technology innovators. Companies interested in engaging with a diverse audience of drone enthusiasts, filmmakers, photographers, and commercial drone pilots have the opportunity to become event partners.
Businesses can participate in the festival by:
Setting up a booth to showcase their products and services
Offering live product demonstrations
Connecting with drone pilots and industry professionals
Sponsoring keynote sessions or panel discussions
For companies unable to attend in person, virtual sponsorship opportunities are available, including promotional video placements on the festival&rsquo;s giant video wall, located at the heart of the event. This screen will feature films, interviews, and drone-related product demos, providing an excellent opportunity for brands to gain exposure among festival attendees.
To learn more about sponsorship and partnership opportunities, visit <a href="https://www.usdronefest.com/partners" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.usdronefest.com/partners</a>.
<h5 class="p3">The Future of Drones on Display</h5>
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From entertainment and aerial photography to commercial applications and emergency response, drone technology continues to redefine industries worldwide. AZDroneFest 2025 offers a rare opportunity to see this technology in action, learn from the best, and celebrate the artistry of drone cinematography.
For attendees, the festival is an incredible networking opportunity, allowing hobbyists, content creators, commercial drone pilots, and first responders to share their experiences, gain insights, and expand their expertise. The festival aims to bridge the gap between casual drone enthusiasts and industry professionals, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can learn, grow, and be inspired.
<h5 class="p1">Important Dates</h5>
Film Submission Deadline: September 15, 2025
AZDroneFest Event Date: March 15, 2025
Location: Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Arizona
For more information, including submission guidelines, sponsorship details, and event registration, visit AZDroneFest.com.Join us for AZDroneFest 2025 and be part of an unforgettable celebration of aerial creativity and cutting-edge drone technology. Whether you&rsquo;re an industry veteran or just starting out, this event is the perfect place to be inspired, learn, and connect with the global drone community. See you there!
<h5 class="p1">Learn More</h5>
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Sixth Annual AZDroneFest Film Festival & UAS Expo

19 February 2025
AI, drones, and e-commerce technology advancements, increasingly global supply chains, and today's instant delivery expectations are changing the way businesses manage their inventory. To meet and exceed customer expectations and effectively control costs, business leaders must constantly improve the tracking and accounting of product at physical locations to ensure counts are synchronized across e-commerce sites, backend warehouse management, and accounting systems. It is becoming increasingly critical for revenue growth and cost management for any retail, manufacturing, or fulfillment business, that inventory optimization is achieved through accurate forecasting, inventory cycle counts, and removing manual processes from the work of warehouse and logistics staff.
One recent publicly listed company, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="http://www.zenatech.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ZenaTech</a>, and its subsidiary <a href="https://www.zenadrone.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ZenaDrone</a> are set to lead the charge for this innovation. Their indoor self-flying or autonomous drones are transforming the inventory management and stocktake process by doing more accurate full physical counts of inventory as frequently as on an hourly basis. They are also changing the face of decision-making and planning particularly for "available-to-promise" (ATP) or "capable-to-promise" (CTP) forecasting and leveraging machine learning and predictive tools to automate and bring accuracy that can further improve the entire process.
Inventory carrying costs (ICC) are so important for any business to manage as they can eat significantly into the bottom line. Not just the actual product or material storage, but the associated handling costs, insurance, taxes, shrinkage, depreciation &mdash; and the opportunity cost of having capital tied up in inventory. It is easy to see how quickly the costs of holding and storing unsold or work-in-process goods add up.
AI self-flying or autonomous drones are a modern way to help reduce ICC, while also improving inventory management, stocktaking, and verifying the physical goods in your warehouse or storage facility, they also minimize labor costs.
This is one company to watch that addresses these problems directly and has a great future ahead.
<h5>Upgrade and Innovate Inventory Systems</h5>
ZenaTech's ZenaDrone has developed the new <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.zenatech.com/warehousing-and-logistics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IQ Nano</a>, a 10'x10' drone designed to perform regular and frequent inspections including bar code or RFID scanning, facility maintenance inspections, security monitoring, 3D indoor mapping and other applications in a warehouse or distribution facility.
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The IQ Nano is designed for autonomous use with integrated sensors, high-quality cameras, data collection and analysis, and AI capabilities. Weighing just 3.3 pounds and with a flight time of up to 20 minutes before autonomously touching down and recharging using its automatic battery charging station, the IQ Nano is designed for hovering stability and safety, thanks to its built-in obstacle avoidance capabilities.
"The IQ Nano is a breakthrough technology that dramatically reduces the burden of inventory management in terms of both labor and cost," said ZenaTech CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. "This dramatically improves decision-making and efficient operations by being able to assess and manage physical inventory cost-effectively by the hour instead of once every quarter, as is often done. This easily results in inventory cost savings in millions of dollars per year for multi-warehouse facility customers."
<h5>Transform Warehouse Processes for a Single Facility or a Network</h5>
Inventory management has become increasingly complex due to global facilities, information, and supply chains. According to Forrester research, omnichannel fulfillment across multiple stores, sales channels, and online marketplaces is a high or top priority for 94% of retailers. Ultimately, this is a much larger network than many traditional inventory management systems were designed to track and manage.
By adopting ZenaTech's ZenaDrone solutions, warehouse facilities can improve their operations and more easily account for inventory in addition to optimizing costs, compliance, and financial reporting:
&bull; Reduce costs and eliminate manual processes: Move from occasional or regular quarterly/annual stocktakes, to continuous inventory data, ensuring more accuracy and efficiency across the enterprise. This will boost productivity and cost reduction by eliminating the need for time-consuming and tedious manual counts.
&bull; Improve safety in the warehouse: Drones can reduce the need to climb up ladders and reach top shelves or other hard-to-reach areas, dramatically reducing safety issues and improving safety compliance.
&bull; Improve inventory carrying costs: Better accuracy knowing what is sitting in inventory or work-in-process for better decision making to lower overall inventory costs.
&bull; Instant identification of misplaced items: Swiftly identify and rectify misplaced pallets, boxes, and SKUs, streamlining picking, replenishment, and shipment processes. 
&bull; Optimized goods tracking: Always know the exact location of goods, minimizing search times and maximizing resource utilization plus synchronizing with accounting systems.
<h5>Learn More</h5>
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Self-flying AI drones are transforming warehouses

18 February 2025
In a recent flight test campaign, conducted in collaboration with the leading European aerospace company, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.uavnavigation.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a</a> and <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.uav-stol.com/es/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Primoco UAV SE</a> showcased the seamless integration of advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technologies with teaming intelligence software. This integration enabled the autonomous and dynamic coordination of multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in a real-time swarm from a manned aircraft and its potential in manned-unmanned teaming (MUT) missions.
This demonstration validated how UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a&rsquo;s cutting-edge Flight Control Systems (FCS) play a critical role in ensuring precise execution, robust reliability, and seamless interoperability. The company&rsquo;s VECTOR-600 autopilot was specifically adapted to process and execute mission commands via a dedicated interface with the Mission Control Computer (MCC), proving its ability to integrate with complex mission management systems.
<h5>Enabling the Next Generation of UAV Operations</h5>
The collaboration between UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a and Primoco UAV SE is built on years of technological partnership and trust, leading to the development of increasingly sophisticated UAV capabilities. In this latest demonstration, the coordinated operation of multiple UAVs enabled real-time surveillance and threat detection scenarios, leveraging AI-based Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) software to autonomously identify and classify threats.
Furthermore, the successful integration of third-party applications validated the scalability and adaptability of the solution, proving its capability to operate across different UAV platforms and mission architectures. The UAVs dynamically reassigned tasks mid-mission, demonstrating true autonomy and operational flexibility in high-demand environments.
<h5>Advancing Innovation in Autonomous UAV Systems</h5>
Beyond this successful campaign, UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a continues to push the boundaries of autonomous flight, GNSS-denied navigation in hostile environments, Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), and swarming technologies. Its advanced flight control systems enable seamless integration with manned aircraft, supporting real-time mission execution and in-flight decision-making. Additionally, the incorporation of On-Screen Display (OSD) and First-Person View (FPV) guidance enhances situational awareness through the Primary Flight Display (PFD), providing operators with an intuitive and effective control interface.
<h5>A Commitment to the Future of UAV Operations</h5>
This successful test campaign highlights the disruptive potential of UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a's guidance and control systems, reaffirming the company&rsquo;s role as a key enabler of next-generation UAV operations.
As UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a and Primoco UAV SE continue their collaboration, this milestone represents a significant step forward in expanding the role of UAVs in defense, security, and critical infrastructure applications, paving the way for more autonomous, resilient, and mission-capable UAV systems.
<h5>About UAV Navigation - Grupo Oes&iacute;a</h5>
UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a is a company specializing in the design of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) solutions for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) since 2004. UAV Navigation-Grupo Oes&iacute;a's flight solutions are used by a wide range of leading aerospace manufacturers for a variety of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), also known as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) or "drones."
UAV Navigation is part of the Grupo Oes&iacute;a, a Spanish multinational company dedicated to dual-use digital and industrial engineering, which develops and implements projects in more than 40 countries. It has 3,200 professionals in 18 corporate headquarters in Europe, Latin America and Asia. Throughout almost 50 years of experience, it has innovated products and services that benefit millions of people around the world, with the aim of creating a better, more efficient, safer and sustainable world. &nbsp;
The industrial companies within the Grupo Oes&iacute;a ecosystem are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining cutting-edge technology for the Security, Defense, and Aerospace sectors, with a long track record of work in avionics for significant projects such as the Eurofighter EF-2000, A-400M, F-18, C-295, P3-B Orion, or MH-60R. The group is now involved in the most important UAV projects, including FCAS/NGWS, Eurodrone, and SIRTAP, among others.&nbsp;
<h5>About PRIMOCO UAV SE</h5>
Since 2015, the Czech company Primoco UAV SE has been developing and manufacturing civilian and military One 150 UAVs, capable of flying completely independently according to programmed flight plans. The key features of the aircraft are its size, maximum take-off weight of 150 kg, endurance of up to 15 hours depending on equipment, cruising speed of 120 km/h, payload of up to 30 kg, fully automatic take-off and landing. Primoco One 150 has EASA LUC SAIL III civil operating authorisation and is in the process of NATO STANAG 4703 certification. The company focuses on civil and military aeronautical applications, particularly in the areas of reconnaissance, energy, border and coastal security, and intelligence. More than 200 Primoco aircraft produced to date are in service in 15 different countries on four continents - from Germany to Malaysia. Primoco UAV is a publicly traded company on the main market of the Prague Stock Exchange.

UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía and Primoco UAV SE Demo Teaming and Swarm Capabilities

18 February 2025
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/vRlB5uYbwpY8d8cmJJZR9XGctqPjOMffU89wbPlu.jpg" alt="" width="109" height="103" />
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/pilot/dan-dierking" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By Dan Dierking</a>
My story begins going way back to about 1992&mdash;yes, I know, it shows my age (LOL). I starting flying R/C airplanes and helicopters in college. I joined a local R/C airplane club and I was immediately hooked. This was back in the day when there was only nitro powered aircraft using NiCad battery packs and AM/FM transmitters/receivers. You had to use frequency crystals in both the transmitter and the receiver in the aircraft. They both had to be on the same channel. If you were flying at a local R/C airplane club, no two aircraft could fly on the same channel at the same time. With today&rsquo;s technology, you just bind your aircraft to your controller. I built my first balsa airplane from a kit in my college dorm with the help of one of the veteran airplane club members in the club that I belonged to. It was a Carl Goldberg Eagle 2 high wing trainer. I&rsquo;ve belonged to several R/C airplane clubs over the years. I have even been the vice-president as well as president of a few of the clubs. I also taught a few people to fly R/C airplanes and at one point I was a sponsored R/C helicopter pilot for Gohbee, but unfortunately, they went out of business in 2009.&nbsp;
Around 2002, when I saw other people starting to mount point and shoot cameras on helicopters, I just had to give it a try. I started with a Thunder Tiger Raptor 50, then I moved up to a nitro powered Align TREX 600 then finally I moved up to a TREX 600E once electric helicopters became more streamlined. I also had an R/C kite that had a point and shoot camera mounted on it. Unfortunately, the kites are no longer being made. Next, I moved to tri-copters and then to quadcopters. That was before they were even called Drones. I&rsquo;ve mounted cameras on several airplanes over the years and even dabbled with long range flight using R/C wings as well.&nbsp;
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/FAWtL4zHPJepy6fD6I4WH4Gh94FLYd504itLgm2s.jpg" alt="" width="679" height="371" />
I&rsquo;ve always had a passion for flying as well as photography/videography. I started out in my aerial photography journey by taking photos of parks and neighborhood houses in my subdivision. Some of my first&nbsp;jobs included aerial photos of a BMX race track, churches, daycares and paint ball fields. Less than a year after the Part 107 certification came out which I believe was in 2016, I acquired my Part 107 certification in early 2017. I continued to do jobs on a part time basis as my full-time job as an IT Systems Administrator wouldn&rsquo;t allow me to go full time flying drones. I was never comfortable quitting my day job to do aerial photography/videography full time. I also obtained my Missouri Real Estate license twice, once back in 2003 and again in 2022. Mainly so I could pay myself to buy a new house. Again, I was never able to keep up with it and retain my realtor license due to my full-time job.&nbsp;
I also tend to switch around between different hobbies a lot. According to my wife, I have more hobbies than anyone she has ever known. I will get bored with one or more of my hobbies and switch to something else for a while. Here are just a few of the things I&rsquo;ve either done over the years or that I am currently doing: flying ultralights (a go-cart with wings), flying gyrocopters (what James Bond flew in the movie You Only Live Twice), performing as an amateur magician ( started performing magic in college as well to help me get over the fear of being in front of a crowd), flying R/C airplanes and helicopters (true me, I have owned quite a few over the years), racing R/C cars, FPV drone racing, 3D printing (which I still do the 3D print parts and accessories for my drone), sublimation printing, laser engraving with CO2 and fiber lasers, machine embroidery, pixel Christmas light displays, motorcycle riding and ATV riding. I always seem to come back to my drone aerial photography/videography. &nbsp;
Before I got into taking aerial photos and video, keeping up with the radio control theme, I raced R/C cars. I built a couple outdoor offroad race tracks and even a couple indoor offroad race tracks. The first being inside a greenhouse that had closed down and the second indoor race track was in an indoor archery range. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed racing R/C cars, it was a very competitive hobby, but flying R/C airplanes, helicopters and drones was my true passion.&nbsp;
I&rsquo;ve owned mainly DJI drones over the years including a DJI Phantom 1, DJI Phantom 4, DJI Mavic 2, and a DJI Inspire 1 V2. I&rsquo;ve also owned an Autel EVO II Pro, a 3DR Solo as well as a number of cinematic drones for doing indoor fly-through work including a&nbsp;DIATONE MXC Taycan duct 3-inch cinewhoop, a few BetaFPV and Emax cinewhoops as well as a few others. Currently I have a DJI mini 4 Pro, a DJI Neo and a DJI Avata 2 in my arsenal. My main focus is Real Estate, residential and commercial FPV flythroughs and construction, but we will see where things will take me.&nbsp;
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I really enjoy taking aerial photos and videos for clients using my DJI Mini 4 Pro, but over the last few years I have preferred doing real estate fly throughs (residential and commercial) using my cinematography FPV type drones like my DJI Avanta 2 and my DJI Neo. I think some of the reasons are that the FPV drones are more challenging to fly and require more skill and are just not as common as regular aerial photography/videography.&nbsp;
A little bit more about me personally now. I have a prosthetic leg. I was born with a birth defect and had to have my right foot amputated when I was a year and a half old. I have been very fortunate and have never let it slow me down. Most people don&rsquo;t even notice I have an artificial leg. I have a BS degree in Industrial Technology (engineering). I got into this field as I am always tinkering with something. I am currently an IT Operations Manager for a small company in the St Louis, MO area. I&rsquo;m married to my very supportive wife. I have a 19 year old daughter in college and a 16 year old son in high school. I couldn&rsquo;t ask for any better kids. I also have two fur babies (cats). Annie is my very spoiled cat and Bella is my wife&rsquo;s cat, she&rsquo;s spoiled as well, LOL.&nbsp;
I&rsquo;ve tried to retain a lot of photos and videos that I have taken over the years. Unfortunately, I haven&rsquo;t done the best job. I do have several videos on my YouTube channel, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.youtube.com/@3dmanaerials" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/@3dmanaerials</a>. I hope to continue to do aerial photography/videography and indoor fly throughs for years to come. I&rsquo;ll continue to improve my flying skills to produce better&nbsp;results&nbsp;for my clients. I am very excited to see the future of this business. It will be interesting to see how the FAA shapes this industry with things like remote ID. My only hope is that these changes allow this industry to grow rather than hurt all of the Part 107 certified pilots.&nbsp;

Pilot Story: Dan Dierking

12 February 2025
Given the mysteries and concerns regarding the "New Jersey Drone Deluge"&mdash;as well as general agita over the appearance of drones almost everywhere&mdash;it seems some people are wondering if they can take a DEFCON 5 "seek and destroy" stance if a drone hovers over their private property.
Apparently, a few residents of Columbia, South Carolina may be predisposed to blasting a drone out of the sky if they catch one zooming across their property lines.&nbsp; As a result, WLTX 19 jumped in to provide its viewers with a concise and fact-checked answer as to the legalities of taking down trespassing UAVs.
<h5>Get the Answer!</h5>
<iframe style="width: 674px; height: 379px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qq6ldFE-mAU?si=Y-FsBPNDgMGSjJVf" width="674" height="379" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

Is It Legal to Shoot Down a Drone?

12 February 2025
<a href="https://gremsy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gremsy</a> and <a href="https://www.nokia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nokia</a> are partnering to showcase their latest UAV integration solutions at <a href="https://www.xponential-europe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">XPONENTIAL Europe 2025</a>, a premier event bringing together leaders in unmanned and autonomous systems. With a shared commitment to advancing drone technology, the collaboration aims to highlight how cutting-edge innovation is shaping the future of UAV operations.
This highly anticipated event offers an exceptional platform for professionals and enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements in drone technology, as well as the regulatory and technical challenges of the industry. Gremsy and Nokia are at the forefront, with their integrated solutions set to take UAV performance and operational efficiency to new heights.
<h5>Gremsy and Nokia: Innovating UAV Solutions Together</h5>
At Gremsy&rsquo;s booth, attendees will get a firsthand look at their advanced payload solutions, designed to enhance UAV performance across multiple industries. Known for their precision, stability, and seamless integration, Gremsy&rsquo;s gimbals and payloads have become a preferred choice for UAV operators seeking superior imagery and data collection capabilities.
Highlighting the event, Gremsy will bring out VIO and ORUS L, the newly created cutting-edge spherical payload designed to offer superior balancing and compatibility with high-end imaging sensors. Officially launching within this year soon,&nbsp; the ORUS L is crafted for demanding conditions, enabling UAVs to capture smooth, high-quality imagery even in challenging environments. Gremsy&rsquo;s demonstrations at XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 will showcase the capabilities of their payloads integrated to drone systems, including the vibrations isolator systems, ensuring stability for mission-critical applications.&nbsp;
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/B22uJGjzaDSromRG6YfB7ESff32wY7uEH70B7bl6.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="355" />
<h5>A Smarter Future for UAV Operations</h5>
As the event progresses, Gremsy and Nokia will illustrate how their combined technologies are transforming the UAV landscape. Gremsy&rsquo;s gimbal and payload technology, renowned for its unmatched stabilization, will be paired with Nokia&rsquo;s cutting-edge connectivity solutions, creating smarter, more efficient UAV systems.
XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 also serves as an ideal platform for discussing the broader technical and regulatory implications of unmanned systems. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the integration of stabilization and connectivity technologies, which are crucial for the evolution of UAV applications across industries.
<h5>About Gremsy</h5>
Gremsy is a leader in designing and manufacturing advanced gimbal technology, delivering payload solutions that combine stability, precision, and innovation. Their products are used in diverse sectors including aerial surveying, search and rescue, and surveillance, ensuring that UAV operators can capture high-quality imagery in even the most demanding environments.

Gremsy and Nokia Display UAV Integration Solutions

10 February 2025
<a href="https://uvisionuav.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UVision Air Ltd.</a> &mdash; a global pioneer in loitering munition systems &mdash; has signed a strategic partnership agreement with <a href="https://www.omnisys.co.il/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Omnisys</a>, a provider of BRO a combat-proven mission planning &amp; optimization systems. This technological collaboration integrates Omnisys' BRO advanced mission planning &amp; optimization capabilities with UVision's HERO loitering munition family to deliver a comprehensive battlefield management system.
The Omnisys BRO (Battle Resource Optimization) systems are combat proven and cover a broad range of operational domains.
BRO by Omnisys ensure Mission Success by Optimized decision making and management by mission commanders and planners, enabling maximum effectiveness in operational missions by optimizing system deployment and operation, adapted to the relevant enemy in the respective theatre and terrain.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/KZ2H49JddMrmJ3A8HZh12qnAQHqiq7o3uk6cQ7jZ.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="342" />
During the mission planning and executions phases, the BRO calculates optimized routes and transfers data to UVision's command and control system which enables the management of multiple HERO loitering munitions simultaneously. The optimization of the mission planning elements achieved through this collaboration allows precise allocation of munitions to targets, optimizing parameters like target type, location, flight altitudes and optimized trajectories, warhead type, other effectors and payloads, weather conditions, mapping data, and more.
The integration of Omnisys' system with UVision's HERO loitering munitions enhances overall mission effectiveness. It improves operational precision by reducing the human error factor, boosts success rates through optimized target engagement, and strengthens force protection by enabling remote mission management. Such combined solution reduces cognitive burden on operators, allowing them to concentrate on strategic decisions and maximize combat performance and productivity.
Dr. Ran Gozali, CEO of UVision Air, stated: "This partnership with Omnisys introduces a new paradigm in mission execution. By autonomously managing multiple loitering munitions and their engagement, operators can prioritize strategic decisions, enhancing both lethality and operational efficiency."
Ofer Yarden, CEO of Omnisys, added: "The integration of our battle-proven mission optimization technologies with UVision's cutting-edge loitering munitions provides commanders with the tools to make optimal decisions. This collaboration enhances mission success rates and strengthens battlefield effectiveness. Our combined solution offers unprecedented levels of automation and precision in loitering munition deployment, marking a significant advancement in defense technology."
<h5>About UVision&nbsp;Air Ltd.</h5>
UVision designs and manufactures combat-proven smart loitering munition systems, providing military organizations around the globe with precise and effective operational attack capabilities. Its innovative, cost-effective systems are based on cutting-edge technology and 30 years of extensive field experience by military professionals, engineers, and the company&rsquo;s own management team.
The HERO series of systems provides high-precision strike capabilities, based on unique aerodynamic platform configurations. UVision&rsquo;s loitering munitions are designed with unique flight qualities for precision-attack munitions, integrating advanced airborne guidance and sophisticated navigation algorithms, integrated with C4I stations &ndash; thereby meeting the requirements of today&rsquo;s modern battlefield for combat in complex and dynamic environments. The HERO series of loitering munitions is suitable for tactical and strategic targets ‒ whether for short, medium or long-range &ndash; utilizing a variety of warheads to ensure maximum mission effectiveness. The units are operationally deployed and field proven. ISO certified, UVision is fully committed to providing turnkey solutions to its extensive network of partners and customers around the world, with high-quality service and customer support.
<h5>About Omnisys </h5>
Omnisys is a global provider of leading mission optimization solutions for defense and homeland security. The Omnisys BRO suite of battle resource optimization systems enables end-to-end planning, management and debriefing for integrated land, sea and air missions. The mission optimization leader in Israel's defense industry for two decades, Omnisys delivers combat-proven solutions for diverse critical missions including intelligence gathering, spectrum management, air defense, air surveillance, border security and electronic warfare

UVision and Omnisys Partner for Optimized Battlefield Management

10 February 2025
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/pilot/desi-ekstein" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By Desiree Ekstein (a.k.a &ldquo;Drone Diva Desi&rdquo;)</a>
I didn&rsquo;t start in aviation or drones, my journey began as the owner of a successful but incredibly stressful event rental and coordination business. It was rewarding work, but I was ready for a change. I wanted something new, something exciting. That&rsquo;s when I discovered drones, starting with the AR Parrot. I&rsquo;ll be honest&mdash;it was a learning curve, full of flying and crashing, but I was hooked from the start.
When the FAA announced that drone operators needed a 333 Exemption to fly commercially, I jumped at the opportunity to get mine and began exploring the potential of unmanned aviation. At the time, obtaining a 333 Exemption meant having a private pilot&rsquo;s license, which I didn&rsquo;t have. To fulfill that requirement, I started training to fly a hot air balloon. However, a propane leak during one of those lessons made me pause and reevaluate my path. That&rsquo;s when I decided to hold off and wait for the FAA Part 107 certification to roll out instead&mdash;a much more accessible route for aspiring commercial drone pilots.
While waiting, I enrolled in a course through Gold Seal. The course started as general aviation training, but as I progressed, it transitioned into the FAA&rsquo;s Part 107 drone regulations. This process was a game-changer for me. It made me realize how important safety is in this industry and how critical it is to approach drone operations with professionalism and care. With my entrepreneurial mindset, I saw the massive potential in drones, and I wanted to learn everything I could.
Once I had my Part 107, I was fortunate to join a growing company exploring different industries, including agriculture, construction, and infrastructure inspection. Working across these verticals gave me an invaluable experience and fueled my passion for the endless possibilities drones offer.
But what really drives me is helping others. Seven years ago, I was given the incredible opportunity to lead the Girls Take Flight program. This role was a dream come true&mdash;empowering young women to explore aviation and STEM careers has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Through the program, the young ladies learn how to fly drones safely and build critical skill sets, including videography, professionalism, and understanding aviation regulations. They also have the opportunity to prepare for and take the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam.
One of the most exciting moments is when a 15-year-old passes the exam and must wait until they turn 16 to officially apply for their certificate. It&rsquo;s incredible to see their confidence grow and to know they are taking their first steps toward meaningful careers in the drone industry. Watching these young women develop their skills and realize their potential reminds me why this work is so important. The program has a lasting impact, opening doors to opportunities they may have never considered.
Today, I&rsquo;ve built a fleet of over 27 different types of drones, ranging from the tiny but mighty Babyhawk to large, powerful models like the M200 and Inspire 2. I also love the challenge of freestyle FPV. I&rsquo;m not great, but I get better every time I fly, and the thrill of improving keeps me coming back. Of course, technology keeps evolving, and right now, my favorite drone to fly is the DJI Air 3S&mdash;it&rsquo;s an incredible piece of equipment.
Over the years, my dedication and love for drones have helped shape my career in ways I couldn&rsquo;t have imagined. I&rsquo;m proud to be widely recognized as "Drone Diva Desi" and to have become a trailblazer in the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) field. As the founder of On The Go Video.biz, I provide specialized training and services in drone technology, video production, mapping, and 3D modeling. My experience as one of the first few women to receive the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in 2016 cemented my role as an early advocate for the emerging drone industry.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/C0GXQpjXKoGcmhTQIcmYNG44SFJFA9jBvhOWs8Xd.jpg" alt="" width="485" height="372" />
Another cornerstone of my journey is the Coffee Connection. What began as an initiative to connect and support the UAS community has grown into a thriving live series, streaming across multiple platforms. As the host of Coffee Connection, I lead discussions on cutting-edge drone technology, safety regulations, and the personal stories of industry leaders. It&rsquo;s a space where experts and beginners alike can come together to learn, network, and share their passion for drones. Seeing the series grow and help foster a stronger, more connected community has been truly rewarding.
In addition to hosting Coffee Connection, I am also an Ambassador for Women and Drones, a role that allows me to advocate for greater representation, mentorship, and opportunities for women in the drone industry. Through this work, I support initiatives that promote diversity, professional growth, and community engagement, ensuring that the future of aviation and drone technology is inclusive and thriving.
My love for drones also ties into my passion for history and adventure. One of my favorite projects involves preserving the history of old mining sites. These off-road adventures take me (and my husband) deep into remote areas where I use drones to document structures that might otherwise be lost to time.&nbsp; There have been many memorable trips visiting forgotten mining towns in the desert. The crumbling buildings tell a story, and using drones, I capture detailed 3D models to ensure that this history is preserved. Projects like these combine my love for technology, exploration, and storytelling, making them some of the most fulfilling work I do.&nbsp; As my passion for these expeditions grows, I want to invite others to experience them with us.
I enjoy sharing my knowledge and offering both individual and corporate training, ensuring that drone operators understand not only the technology but also the importance of safety and regulations. I&rsquo;m also honored to serve as the UAS Lead FAASTeam Representative and a DronePro in San Diego, California, where I work to champion safe drone operations.
Beyond my work in the U.S., I&rsquo;ve had the privilege of speaking internationally and sharing insights on drone industry trends, regulations, and its future potential. I&rsquo;m also a published author, with works focusing on drone safety and industry best practices, reflecting my dedication to advancing education in this field.
I&rsquo;ve been humbled to be inducted into the Women in Emerging Aviation Technology Hall of Fame and to receive the FAA Part 107 Trailblazer Award, honors that represent my commitment to both innovation and safety in the drone industry.
From those first shaky flights with the AR Parrot to where I am today, my drone journey has been filled with challenges, growth, and incredible opportunities. Whether I&rsquo;m mentoring the next generation, flying my drone, or exploring new applications in the industry, my mission remains the same: to inspire, educate, and push the boundaries of what&rsquo;s possible with unmanned aviation.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/C13pcUaPc9R6eg57zL3aZvbIlAcP3JhdYb0h26Wh.jpg" alt="" width="459" height="344" />
<h5>Learn More</h5>
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