Stealth UAV for Tactical Mapping Exposed

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Traditional mapping tools, such as quadcopters or short-range surveillance drones, lack the capabilities to perform mid-range mapping reconnaissance tasks, particularly in environments that are difficult to navigate.

A new fixed-wing Unmanned Aircraft System (UAV) recently launched is optimized for covert tactical mapping operations in defense, security, and governmental sectors.

The eBee TAC exposed by senseFly offers active field personnel access to accurate and reliable location data and maps, delivering the field intelligence and situational awareness needed to act with confidence and precision across rapidly-changing environments. The UAV is fully National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) compliant.

At just 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs), eBee TAC is a lightweight, ultra-portable and robust solution specially designed for tactical mapping and analysis in defense applications and its product platform is currently employed by U.S. forces. 

With up to 90 minutes of flight time and a single flight coverage of up to 500 ha at 122m (1,236 A at 400 ft.), it is ideal for long-range Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, with the capability to integrate with situational awareness tools such as ATAK geospatial app.

The UAV includes enhanced security features to protect field operations. The included eMotion flight and mission planning software enables operations in disconnected environments and employs Advanced Encryption Standard 256 (AES-256) to prevent communications hacking between the UAV and its control station. 

Silent radio mission mode can be activated to minimize UAV detection during flights, while a No Log Mode suppresses flight recordings.

Increased stealth during missions is achieved through a unique digital camouflage (“digicam”) skin.

The UAV can be rapidly deployed from assembly to hand-launch in just three minutes and operated by one person in the field for added agility. Its included backpack offers durable protection and portability for the UAV and its components between locations, according to UAVvision.com.

Swappable sensors allow operators to collect thermal, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and RGB data that can be immediately used via the on-board SD card for analysis and rapid decision-making.