Skyfront’s Perimeter drone used to perform first ship-to-submarine delivery via small UAS

November 18, 2020 | AUVSI News

Skyfront has announced that its Perimeter drone was recently used to perform the first ship-to-submarine delivery via small UAS.

During the flight, the long-endurance hybrid-electric Perimeter drone showcased its ability to resupply submarines at sea in a quick and cost-effective manner. 

Skyfront’s command and control handoff capability was unveiled during the flight. Pilots aboard the surface vessel launched the drone and flew it near the submarine. Once there, pilots aboard the submarine took control of the drone and released the package onto the top of the sub.

Skyfront says that command and control handoff is offered as an option on all Skyfront Perimeter UAS, including those equipped with Silvus Technologies’ Streamcaster radios for the data link and Optimum Solutions’ long range tracking antennas. With this option, an unlimited number of pilots and ground control stations can seamlessly view video from and take control of the Perimeter UAS at any time. The drone can be controlled using joysticks or Skyfront’s satellite map software.

According to Skyfront, the capability demonstrated by the Perimeter drone is “essential” for long range missions to maintain line-of-sight control by using multiple distributed pilots to comply with some countries’ aviation rules and regulations. Pilots can also maintain full control of the vehicle while flying over rugged terrain where radio links are likely to be compromised by line-of-sight obstructions.