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12 September 2025
Over the past decade, drones have soared from novelty gadgets to essential tools in countless industries - and saltwater fishing is no exception. These high-tech devices are revolutionizing how saltwater anglers locate fish, deploy bait, and even ensure safety, from the beach to the boat.
But not just any drone will do. When it comes to open water, crashing waves, and corrosive salt spray, only <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://store.swellpro.com/pages/best-fishing-drones-swellpro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">waterproof drones that are purpose-built for fishing</a> can truly thrive.
Thanks to innovators like SwellPro, whose drones are built specifically for marine environments, anglers now have access to tools that extend their reach and increase hookup rates, offering new advantages and new possibilities across every major saltwater fishing category.
In this post, we will dive into all the fishing styles that SwellPro fishing drones can offer great assistance to. 
<h5>Shore Fishing: Casting Farther Past The Surf Zone</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/BziouMfPU47rkN8ztFl1ae414MXSnZHVQ20Rn55Y.png" alt="" width="459" height="206" />
SwellPro Fisherman Max FD2 
Shore fishing is one of the most accessible forms of saltwater angling and the top area where fishing drones find their way in. Almost every shore angler I know wants to increase their casting distance. Why? Because the bigger, elusive fish don&rsquo;t spend their time in the shallow surf. But with standard surf rods and reels, reaching deeper waters or active feeding zones isn&rsquo;t always possible - until now.&nbsp;
Instead of casting, you attach your bait and line to the SwellPro drone&rsquo;s payload release mechanism, fly it past the breakers, usually 100-300 yards out, and drop your bait exactly where you want it.&nbsp;
The result? You can fish offshore waters without a boat. And because they&rsquo;re fully waterproof and salt-resistant, you don&rsquo;t have to worry about sea spray or splashdowns.
In the United States, and some parts of Australia, land-based shark anglers are using drones like the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://store.swellpro.com/products/fisherman-max?variant=40410407338064" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SwellPro Fisherman Max FD2</a> to carry up to 3.5kg of whole-fish bait and a heavy rig to hook up huge sharks. In the old days, their only option of getting baits out was by kayak, which brings much more work and risks than fun, especially in rough conditions.&nbsp;
<h5>Watch How Easy It Is to Drop Bait with SwellPro</h5>
<iframe style="width: 674px; height: 379px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VOmSb-Zlnr4?si=m3DFbpDDohfIyVdm" width="674" height="379" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h5>Surfcasting: From Beach Reader to Precision Striker</h5>
Some species like snapper, halibut and drum are tightly structure-oriented - hugging the edges of reefs, sitting just inside a gutter, or feeding along sandy drop-offs. For targeting bottom feeders, success isn't just about casting far - it&rsquo;s about casting accuracy. Experienced anglers often know how to read the wave patterns to reveal those fish-rich structures below the surface.
Today, with the help of SwellPro, surfcasters can fly overhead and use the drone&rsquo;s live video feed to visually confirm where the structure is, and more importantly, drop baits right into it with pinpoint accuracy.&nbsp;
It is very difficult to reach the structures with traditional casting gears, especially in wind, and requires wading waist-deep. Casting either too far away from a rock reef, or on top of it, you will miss the fish opportunities and might lose your rigs. This is where SwellPro waterproof drones with high definition cameras become a complete game-changer.&nbsp;
<h5>Watch How Fisherman Hook Big Bull Red from the Deep Ship Channel in Winter</h5>
<iframe style="width: 672px; height: 378px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LP89ZU5Qg3M?si=xmZHZ9o2MxSzHjAS" width="672" height="378" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h5>Sight Fishing For Pelagics&nbsp;</h5>
When it comes to saltwater thrills, few things match the heart-racing chaos of chasing fast-moving pelagic fish - like tuna, marlin, king mackerel, wahoo, and dorado. These apex predators move fast, hunt near the surface, and often appear in short, unpredictable bursts.
Traditionally, anglers relied on boats, binoculars, birds, and gut instinct to find them. But now, a growing number of serious saltwater anglers are using SwellPro as sky scouts to locate, track, and engage pelagic species in real time.&nbsp;
Whether you're fishing from the shore, cliffs, or a boat, you can fly SwellPro high to scan vast water, looking for signs of pelagic fish such as diving birds and bait balls, then fly fast to get closer to and drop lures or bait right in front of the fast-approaching fish.
<h5>The Future of Drone Fishing Has Just Taken Off</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/ScANQtNUvGvuheOKNl9BQf7jEDVTAB97XRR5ipOZ.png" alt="" width="457" height="504" />
If you search the hashtags of &ldquo;drone fishing&rdquo; on TikTok and Instagram, you will find tens of thousands of posts of fishermen showing off their catches with SwellPro or modified DJI bait droppers. Drone is no longer considered as luxury or novelty used by a few tech-savvy anglers. Drone fishing is becoming a mainstream fishing technique. And at the forefront of this movement is SwellPro, the company that pioneered fully waterproof fishing drones and continues to raise the bar.
As drone fishing grows, SwellPro is expanding its technology to support even more fishing styles, including:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sonar-equipped drones for aerial fish finding</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pre-baiting systems for freshwater carp and catfish anglers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smarter Automatic Bait Dropping Controlled by APP and GPS</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bigger payloads capacity for bigger baits and bigger fish</li>
</ul>
In the coming years, according to the foresight by the SwellPro team, waterproof fishing drones will become less expensive, and much easier to use - embraced by more average fishermen in all parts of the world.&nbsp;

Waterproof Drones Changing the Game of Saltwater Fishing 

Trending News

11 September 2025
Whether it's the murder of Charlie Kirk in Utah or Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky in Washington D.C., politically motivated shooting attacks are absolutely tragic and wrenching.&nbsp;
But could the Kirk murder have been stopped if drones were in the air watching over the crowd and rooftops?
We first asked the question back in July 14, 2024, after a shooter tried to assassinate President Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.
Why didn't the Secret Service bolster its security team with drones?
<h5>Read the Articles</h5>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/a-modest-proposal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/a-modest-proposal</a>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/trump-assassination-attempt-we-asked-the-question-first" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/trump-assassination-attempt-we-asked-the-question-first</a>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/opinion-where-were-the-drones-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/opinion-where-were-the-drones-</a>
<h5>Drones Can Help Avert Tragedy</h5>
As the United States turns ever more divisive, outdoor political rallies and debates are unfortunately becoming potential targets for shootings, bombings, and other mayhem. It's near impossible to guard against every possible attack with police and event security on the ground, and, in Kirk's case, he didn't want a shield of security personnel between him and his audience.
However, a few drones with trained pilots could hover over rooftops, entry and exit roads, nearby areas, and even the crowd to determine if a murderous criminal is setting up an attack. Any sightings could be immediately radioed to security on the ground to rush to the danger. In fact, the drones themselves could be deployed to distract, broadcast the exact location to nearby police and the public, and even injure or otherwise disable the shooter.
Drones are perfect for so many things. Eyes-in-the-sky threat assessement and neutralization for outoor gatherings seems obvious.
Unless, it seems, you're the group putting together the security team...
<h5>Alleged Sighting of Charile Kirk Shooter on Rooftop</h5>
<iframe style="width: 668px; height: 376px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MTuvAYYnxxI?si=SWHcq_YlhW90i2wg" width="668" height="376" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

We Ask Again: Where Were the Drones?

11 September 2025
Commercial drone professionals from around the world gathered last week for the 11th edition of <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, held September 2&ndash;4, 2025, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. The event drew 3,393 verified professionals from all 50 U.S. states and 62 countries, out of 3,920 total registrants, and featured 230 exhibitors from 28 countries, reinforcing its position as the world&rsquo;s leading international trade show and conference focused on the integration and operation of commercial UAS.
&ldquo;This year&rsquo;s Commercial UAV Expo carried extraordinary weight, as it was the first major gathering of the drone industry since the FAA released its long-awaited Part 108 BVLOS NPRM,&rdquo; said Lee Corkhill, Group Event Director at Diversified, organizer of Commercial UAV Expo. &ldquo;Professionals knew they needed to be in Las Vegas to understand what the proposed rule means for their operations, ask questions, and engage in dialogue that will help shape the future of the drone industry. Add to that the product launches, networking, and demonstrations, and it was a can&rsquo;t-miss event.&rdquo;
<h5>Program Highlights</h5>
The conference program delivered practical, actionable education from more than 140 speakers, with sessions focused on regulatory updates, BVLOS operations, autonomy, AI, and real-world case studies.
The opening keynote, led by Buzz Solutions CEO Kaitlyn Albertoli and Dominion Energy&rsquo;s Thomas F. Butler, underscored the importance of proving ROI and avoiding the pitfalls of inaction in drone adoption. A subsequent presentation highlighted HDR&rsquo;s groundbreaking project as the first to conduct drone-based surveying in the Grand Canyon.
Throughout the week, panels tackled the FAA&rsquo;s proposed Part 108 BVLOS regulations, with spirited discussion on opportunities and challenges for operators. Additional sessions explored AI and autonomy, the future of advanced air mobility, and case studies from industries including energy, telecom, construction, and public safety.
Keynotes on the final day emphasized collaboration across industry and government and concluded with the presentation of the Eric Talley Memorial Award to Officer Matt Rowland, honoring outstanding leadership in public safety UAS.
<h5>Exhibitor Innovations</h5>
The exhibit hall showcased 230 companies unveiling cutting-edge drone solutions spanning hardware, software, sensors, and services.
Among the most notable product launches:
<ul>
<li>AIBOT debuted its T500 tiltwing aircraft alongside the new X Series UAV family, marking a milestone in high-speed, heavy-lift autonomous flight.</li>
<li>GeoCue introduced the TrueView 539 LiDAR system, delivering engineering-grade accuracy in a lightweight, accessible package.</li>
<li>Centinus unveiled its BOLO AI platform, enabling drones to move beyond passive surveillance to proactive investigative tools through real-time AI-driven object detection.</li>
</ul>
Other exhibitors, including ACSL, A2Z Drone Delivery, Phoenix LiDAR, FlyGuys, and more, also announced significant new offerings, further underscoring the event&rsquo;s role as the global launchpad for drone innovation.
The always-popular Pitch the Press competition returned, with DefendEye, Pants for Birds, and Skyline Nav AI named as winners by a panel of UAV industry journalists.
<h5>Special Features</h5>
This year&rsquo;s event introduced several exciting features designed to deliver hands-on value:
<ul>
<li>Pilot Institute Partnership &ndash; For the first time, Commercial UAV Expo partnered with Pilot Institute to offer exclusive workshops and hybrid online-to-onsite courses, including Drone Business Made Easy and Drone Mapping, Modeling &amp; Surveying. Pilot Institute also curated multiple sessions in the Pilot Hub.</li>
<li>Indoor Airspace Demonstration Area &ndash; A dedicated zone on the exhibit hall floor where attendees experienced UAV hardware and software in action.</li>
<li>Pilot Hub &ndash; A gathering place for drone pilots at all levels to gain insights into operations, training, and career advancement.</li>
<li>DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit &ndash; Two full days of programming offering case studies and best practices for public safety UAS professionals.</li>
</ul>
<h5>Looking Ahead</h5>
If you couldn&rsquo;t make it to Las Vegas, event organizers encourage commercial UAV industry professionals join the inaugural <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.forumuav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Forum</a>, taking place 22&ndash;23, April 2026 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The next edition of <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a> returns to Las Vegas September 1&ndash;3, 2026, once again at Caesars Forum.
For ongoing coverage, visit <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.commercialuavnews.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV News</a>, which provides in-depth reporting on the sessions, product launches, and announcements made during the event.
<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=post-event-pr&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 next edition will take place September 1-3, 2026, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV.&nbsp; 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 2025 Convenes Global Drone Leaders

Drone Education

Above photo: A K-State Salina UAS instructor holds a remote control and teaches a student how to operate a multi-rotor drone over farmland.
10 September 2025
In the heart of America&rsquo;s Great Plains, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kansas State University Salina</a> has become one of the nation&rsquo;s premier destinations for education, research and applied operations in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, or UAS. With a rich aviation heritage and a strategic location in Kansas, the campus combines tradition with innovation, creating a unique environment where the next generation of UAS leaders are trained.
The campus&rsquo;s UAS program stands out for its depth and breadth. K-State Salina allows students to progress from basic multi-rotor operations to advanced experiences flying large aircraft beyond visual line of sight at altitudes up to 3,000 feet. This academic journey, paired with access to real-world research through the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/applied-aviation-research-center/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Applied Aviation Research Center</a>, ensures graduates leave with not only technical proficiency but also leadership, adaptability and industry-ready skills.
<h5>A Foundation for the Future: Academic Progression</h5>
The structure of the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/degree-options/uas-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UAS program at K-State Salina</a> reflects a deliberate strategy to build confidence and competence step by step. Students begin with multi-rotor aircraft, the type most used in commercial sectors such as photography, inspections and surveying. Starting here allows students to learn fundamental concepts, including aircraft control, safety procedures and mission planning, using platforms they are most likely to encounter in industry.
Once students have mastered multi-rotor systems, they move to fixed-wing UAS. Unlike multi-rotors, which excel at hovering and maneuvering in tight spaces, fixed-wing aircraft offer greater endurance and efficiency, making them ideal for applications such as mapping large tracts of land or monitoring infrastructure. Transitioning to fixed-wing flight challenges students to adapt their skills and broaden their operational understanding, preparing them to work across multiple industry sectors.
The next stage introduces hybrid UAS, a rapidly growing category that combines the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of multi-rotors with the endurance of fixed-wing flight. Hybrids represent one of the most promising areas of UAS development, and students at K-State gain direct experience with these systems long before many of their peers at other institutions. By working with hybrids, students explore the cutting edge of UAS versatility, preparing for roles where adaptability and forward-thinking innovation are crucial.
Finally, students also pursue an instructor upgrade. This advanced track allows them to step into leadership roles within the program by training their peers and refining their communication and mentoring skills. By the time they graduate, students have flown a wide range of platforms and demonstrated the ability to teach and lead, qualities employers value highly in today&rsquo;s competitive UAS workforce.
<h5>Beyond the Basics: Advanced UAS Operations</h5>
K-State Salina pushes far beyond the traditional boundaries of Part 107. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced operations that mirror the complex realities of the industry.
First, the program emphasizes beyond visual line of sight operations, or BVLOS. These are among the most transformative experiences for students, as BVLOS capabilities are critical for commercial applications such as long-range infrastructure inspections, agricultural monitoring and package delivery. At K-State Salina, students not only learn the theory of BVLOS but also actively engage in missions under controlled environments, giving them practical insight into one of the most valuable skill sets in the industry.
Second, students are trained to operate at altitudes up to 3,000 feet above ground level. This is well above the standard operational ceiling for most UAS programs and exposes them to the complexities of working in shared airspace. It requires a deep understanding of air traffic management, communication protocols and risk mitigation strategies. By preparing students for operations at these altitudes, K-State Salina ensures they are ready for the challenges of integrating UAS into the broader national airspace system.
Third, the program provides exposure to UAS weighing more than 55 pounds. K-State Salina offers opportunities for students to work with large platforms that are increasingly in demand across industries such as agriculture, cargo, and defense. This training sets the campus&rsquo;s graduates apart, as they enter the workforce with operational knowledge of systems few students ever touch before employment.
By integrating these advanced operations into the curriculum, K-State Salina ensures that students meet and exceed the minimum standards of UAS training. They leave equipped to take on the most complex challenges the industry has to offer.
<h5>The Applied Aviation Research Center: A National Asset</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/S01QoE8KRX02FzHlCFSAVIx8rIWBzCQowuzB3DRc.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="452" />
K-State Salina's Applied Aviation Research Center provides extensive public safety drone training, guidance and research&nbsp;for law enforcement and other professional industries.
At the core of K-State&rsquo;s UAS program is the Applied Aviation Research Center, or AARC, a facility that bridges the gap between academia, industry and the federal government. Established to advance aviation research and support national priorities, the AARC is both a training ground for students and a hub of innovation for the UAS sector.
The center partners with federal and state agencies, private industry and community stakeholders to conduct research and testing in areas critical to the future of UAS. These include detect-and-avoid technologies, advanced air mobility systems, agricultural applications and disaster response. Projects range from evaluating large agricultural drones capable of covering vast fields, detecting and avoiding systems for safe integration of UAS into shared airspace, and developing strategies for deploying drones in emergencies such as floods, wildfires or tornadoes.
For students, this means more than just classroom learning. Through internships, research assistantships and project-based learning, they gain firsthand experience contributing to initiatives directly impacting the state and national levels. AARC involvement also connects students to industry leaders and policymakers, giving them insight into the broader ecosystem of UAS integration.
The result is an environment where students do not simply study technology but help shape its future.
<h5>Looking Ahead: Innovation in Curriculum and Pathways</h5>
While the program already ranks among the most comprehensive in the country, K-State Salina is actively working to stay ahead of industry demand. One major initiative is exploring reduced-credit degree options, designed to make programs more efficient while maintaining the high standards for which K-State is known. This reflects a broader national trend in higher education to provide students with flexible and affordable pathways that meet the needs of both learners and employers.
The department is also expanding its portfolio of certificates and micro-credentials. These offerings allow professionals already working in the field, or those seeking a career transition, to access targeted training in areas such as UAS data analytics, agricultural applications, or advanced operations. By catering to traditional students and lifelong learners alike, K-State Salina ensures it remains responsive to the changing dynamics of the workforce.
Another area of growth is the development of pipeline opportunities. By collaborating with high schools, community colleges, and workforce partners, the program creates clear entry points for students of all backgrounds to pursue UAS careers. Concurrent enrollment programs allow high school students to begin earning college credit in UAS, while partnerships with school districts introduce students to the field through initiatives like drone racing leagues and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) outreach events. These efforts ensure that the next generation of UAS professionals is both inspired and well-prepared before they even arrive on campus.
<h5>Why It Matters: National Significance</h5>
The UAS industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of aviation, with applications ranging from logistics and agriculture to emergency response and infrastructure inspection. Yet the industry faces a significant challenge because the demand for skilled professionals far outpaces supply. K-State Salina aims to address this gap by producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also adaptable, safety-conscious and confident leaders.
Kansas offers unique advantages for this work. With wide open skies, a strong aviation tradition and supportive state agencies, the environment is ideal for UAS training and research. However, the significance of K-State&rsquo;s program extends far beyond the state&rsquo;s borders. By pushing the boundaries of advanced operations, integrating academic rigor with real-world research and preparing students for leadership roles, K-State Salina is shaping the national conversation on how UAS can safely and effectively be integrated into society.
Graduates leave with more than a diploma. They carry practical experience in BVLOS operations, high-altitude missions and large aircraft systems. They have worked alongside researchers at the AARC and engaged with industry leaders on projects of national importance. This combination of experiences ensures that K-State alums enter the workforce ready to contribute and to lead.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/UuUcVWvYX0URpnzIwPrHyh2rUqh6ityLHM4O3rm0.jpg" alt="" width="668" height="445" />
A K-State Salina student looks at a large multi-rotor drone while a UAS instructor explains how it operates.
<h5>Conclusion</h5>
Kansas State University Salina is more than an academic institution. It is a launchpad for the future of uncrewed aviation. Through a carefully structured training progression, exposure to advanced operations, and engagement with cutting-edge research at the Applied Aviation Research Center, the program equips students with the skills and experiences that set them apart in the industry.
As UAS continues to transform industries, reshape communities and expand the boundaries of what is possible in aviation, K-State Salina is a national leader in preparing the professionals who will guide that transformation. From their first flight on a multi-rotor system to contributing to research that influences national policy, students at K-State do not simply learn about the future of aviation. They create it.

K-State Salina: Building the Next Generation of UAS Leaders

10 September 2025
&ldquo;This situation brings us the closest we have been to open conflict since World War II," said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk about Russian combat drone flights that entered Poland's airspace early today.
Four Russian drones out of an alleged 19 were shot down by the Polish military with assistance from NATO&mdash;the alliance's air command, as well as the Dutch Air Force, scrambled F-35 fighters to support Poland's own defense efforts. Poland claimed a "significant number" of the drones were launched from Russian ally Belarus&mdash;a country known for deploying assets for attacks on Ukraine. No injuries or deaths resulting from the incursion were reported at press time.
Not surprisingly, Russia and Belarus denied the strike was intentional.
Belarus offered a somewhat weak explanation that the drones "lost their way" and even had to destroy some of them flying over their own skies. For its part, Russia acknowledged a large-scale strike against western Ukraine, but maintained there "were no targets envisioned for destruction on the Polish territory,"
The Russian Defense Ministry also offered to consult with the Polish Ministry of Defense on the matter.
However, as the Russian drone flyovers mark the first ever airspace violation for a member of NATO, Polish authorities appear less inclined to believe the situation was caused by a technical error or some other problem.
"There were 19 breaches, and it simply defies imagination that it could be accidental," said Polish Foreign minister Radosław Sikorski. "This is a threat not only to Poland. This new technology of the mass use of drones is a threat to all of the EU and we need to face it together.&rdquo;&nbsp;
President Trump, whose efforts at ending the Ukraine conflict have been ineffective, posted the following on his Truth Social platform: &ldquo;What&rsquo;s with Russia violating Poland&rsquo;s airspace with drones? Here we go!&rdquo;
The ramifications of the airspace violation for NATO and the United States could be dire.
Some military experts feel Russian President Vladimir Putin was "testing" NATO with the strike to see how far he could push things in Russia's favor. There are also opinions that the drone campaign may have been "payback" for Poland's support of Ukraine&mdash;not to mention the country's logistical importance as a hub for NATO and U.S. weaponry.&nbsp;
"We stand by our NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory," said U.S. ambassador to NATO Matthew Whittaker.&nbsp;
Hopefully, this is an isolated incident, but it may change the position of Poland in the Russia/Ukraine conflict.
"Poland is now a part of this war," said Michael Bociurkiw, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank. "They are much more on the front line than they were 24 hours ago."
<h5 class="body-graf">Watch Reaction to Russia's "Reckless" Airspace Violation of NATO Member</h5>
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Poland Destroys Russian Drones Violating Polish Airspace

08 September 2025
California-based drone startup <a href="https://sifly.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SiFly</a> recently bested the previous "longest flight time" for a quadcopter with its Q12 model, setting a Guinness World Record in the process.
The SiFly Q12 now owns the top time with a confirmed and validated three-hour, 11-minute flight.
But extended flight times for drones aren't simply award record fodder or cases for manufacturer bragging rights. As the FAA looks to expand approved BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) distances, longer flight times will mean more extensive operational duties for drones.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve got millions of quadcopters being made every year for consumer applications,&rdquo; said Brian Hinman, founder and CEO of SiFly, in an interview with <a href="https://www.flyingmag.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLYING</a>. &ldquo;Why can&rsquo;t that thing scale up? And why can&rsquo;t it be made efficient? There is no good reason why.&rdquo;
<h5>How Does the Q12 Fly Longer and Farther?</h5>
<div id="flyin-df72d5cf9e7df187cd769d7a4375cf53" class="flyin-df72d5cf9e7df187cd769d7a4375cf53 flyin-in-content">
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/22595167374/FlyingMidArticle1_0__container__">To take full advantage of longer and farther drone ops, Hinman believed the "technology limitation problem" had to be addressed&mdash;a key reason why he started SiFly in the first place.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
&ldquo;You have to have a system that operates for hours on a single charge, not minutes on a single charge,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;In addition, you need a system that goes many, many miles, rather than just a couple.&rdquo;
Not surprisingly, SiFly is seeing tons of preorders for its Q12.&nbsp;
So, how did the company expand time and distance?
&bull; The company is approaching an "optimal battery weight" fraction of approximately two-thirds.
&bull; The battery cells discharge at around one-sixth the rate of other drone and eVTOL batteries.
&bull; The Q12's large rotors require less power to generate lift, as well as avoiding high disc loading and power-devouring flight.
&bull; In addition, the Q12's smooth and flat blades don't suffer from taper and twist that increases aerodynamic drag.
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&ldquo;You put all this stuff together, and that&rsquo;s how you end up in a place where you can hover for two-plus hours and cruise for three-plus hours,&rdquo; said Hinman.
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<h5>See the Q12 in Action</h5>
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SiFly Drone Sets Guinness World Record

05 September 2025
The battle between ranchers and gray wolves has been waged since the days of the pioneers.
Keeping cattle safe from wolf attacks has seldom been easy&mdash;nor 100-percent successful&mdash;and since the once-teetering-on-extinction gray wolf was reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park and other areas in the mid-1990s, the conflict has intensified. Today, hundreds of gray wolves roam in Washington and Oregon, thousands ramble around the Great Lakes, dozens are making their home in Northern California, and the population in the Nothern Rockies is such that the apex predators are no longer considered endangered.
That's good news for the species, but the result has also seen the killing of more than 800 domesticated animals across ten states by gray wolves&mdash;and that's just from a 2022 survey.
The increased threat over the years has prompted ranchers to protect their lifestock by killing the beasts (when approved by officials, as per a recent decision in the state of Washington), or using electrified fencing, horseback patrols, guard dogs, various alarms, trapping/relocating, or other means.
Now, drones have entered the fray. And AC/DC, too!
A team of biologists&mdash;who are currently working around the California-Oregon border&mdash;are experimenting with drones delivering rock-concert volume levels of audio from Austrailia's finest hard-rock band, as well as live "warning" voices, recorded gunshots, and movie clips to scare gray wolves away from cattle. The disruption techniques were developed by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service scientists, and successes were monitored using thermal imaging cameras during night time, when the wolves are most dangerous to livestock groupings.&nbsp;
With apologies to AC/DC, a preliminary study in 2022 showed that wolves do not appreciate rock music&mdash;or human voices&mdash;blasted at them from airborne drones.
&ldquo;If we could reduce the negative impacts of wolves, that is going to more likely lead to a situation where we have coexistence,&rdquo; said USDA lead researcher Dustin Ranglack.
The successes have been encouraging, but there are some caveats...
Currently, the tech for cattle protection by drone requires a model with night vision and the appropriate loudspeaker&mdash;which can cost up to $20,000 per drone. Professional training needs to be factored in, as well, and the drones are far less effective in heavily wooded areas.
In addition, gray wolves are smart. They can already determine&mdash;eventually&mdash;that deterrences such as cables tied with noisy fluttering flags aren't threats.
So, what's to say that the wolves don't learn to love AC/DC and start headbanging along with the music as they pursue helpless cattle?
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&ldquo;I&rsquo;m very appreciative of what the USDA researchers are doing," said cattle rancher Mary Rickert, who resides near Mount Shasta. "But I don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;s a long-term solution. I&rsquo;m afraid that after some period of time, the wolves suddenly go, &lsquo;Wow, this isn&rsquo;t going to hurt me. It just makes a lot of noise.&rsquo;&rdquo;
<h5 class="endmark body-graf">See the AC/DC Defense in Action</h5>
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AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" Is Screaming from Drones to Save livestock

04 September 2025
<a href="https://robotican.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Robotican</a>, a leading Israeli pioneer in the development of autonomous robotic and drone technologies, has introduced a powerful new capability for its combat-proven ROOSTER hybrid drone system: a precision-guided warhead, turning the ROOSTER into a loitering munition designed specifically for indoor missions and urban operation.
The newly integrated configuration includes a total payload capacity of up to 300-gr enabling the installation of a precision warhead alongside additional mission-specific payloads. This allows the ROOSTER to deliver high-precision engagement inside buildings, tunnels, and confined environments. Retaining its signature hybrid design, the ROOSTER can seamlessly switch between rolling and flying, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and deliver targeted strikes with minimal collateral damage.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/BL12oPAcUWEefr2uYhPkblb9L8QdVL46HRaOmvqc.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="381" />
This breakthrough capability is supported by AI-based object detection and target Tracking &amp; locking, enabling the ROOSTER to autonomously identify, track, and lock on to user operator objects or threats. A built-in multi-layered safety mechanism ensures secure handling and controlled activation, protecting friendly forces throughout operation.
&ldquo;With the armed ROOSTER, we are bringing precision and autonomy to environments that were previously off-limits to loitering munitions,&rdquo; said Hagai Balshai, CEO of Robotican. &ldquo;Forces can now conduct surgical strikes inside structures with a compact, intelligent platform that minimizes risk to operators and surrounding civilians.&rdquo;
The armed ROOSTER expands the system&rsquo;s mission scope beyond ISR, rescue, and inspection to include neutralization of threats in urban warfare, subterranean operations, and hostage rescue scenarios- all while maintaining the system&rsquo;s lightweight, single-operator portability and NATO-registered reliability. Thanks to its modular design and mission-specific payload integration, the ROOSTER offers unmatched operational flexibility, allowing forces to configure the system for diverse operational requirements, from intelligence gathering to precision engagement. This adaptability significantly increases its tactical utility in dynamic and unpredictable combat environments.
<h5>About Robotican</h5>
Founded in 2013, Robotican is a leading Israeli pioneer in the field of advanced autonomous robotic systems for aerial, ground and C-UAS systems. The company combines academic expertise with real-world operational insight to deliver reliable, mission-ready solutions for defense, homeland security, and commercial global partners.

Robotican Unveils Armed ROOSTER Configuration

02 September 2025
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/brazzel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By Timothy Brazzel</a>
The topic of DJI and the ongoing U.S. drone ban has been at the center of conversations in the drone community for quite some time. As the most dominant drone manufacturer in the world, DJI has built a reputation for producing reliable, user-friendly, and innovative products that both hobbyists and professionals have come to rely on. But with increasing political pressure, growing security concerns, and an uncertain regulatory future, many drone pilots in the U.S. are asking the same question: What&rsquo;s next for DJI? Recently, I watched a fantastic discussion on Bill The Drone Reviewer&rsquo;s YouTube channel, featuring Rick Smith from Drone Valley. Rick shared some insights that really stuck with me, laying out a few possible strategies DJI might pursue to get around the U.S. ban. These aren&rsquo;t confirmed moves, but they&rsquo;re realistic scenarios worth exploring. Today, I want to break down those options, talk about the pros and cons, and share some of my own thoughts on how DJI might navigate this storm. Let&rsquo;s dive in.
<h5 class="p4">Option 1: Build a Factory in the U.S.</h5>
At first glance, this might sound like the &ldquo;golden ticket&rdquo; solution. If DJI were to build a manufacturing facility here in the United States, they could sidestep tariffs, create American jobs, and possibly earn back some goodwill from lawmakers. Imagine the headlines: &ldquo;DJI Opens Drone Factory in the U.S.&rdquo; From a public relations standpoint, that&rsquo;s huge. It&rsquo;s a move that not only addresses political concerns but also demonstrates a tangible investment in the U.S. market. Customers might even feel more confident purchasing DJI drones, knowing they&rsquo;re &ldquo;Made in America.&rdquo;
The Pros
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li3">Avoid tariffs and potential import restrictions.</li>
<li class="li3">Improve DJI&rsquo;s public image by creating U.S. jobs.</li>
<li class="li3">Build trust with American lawmakers and consumers.</li>
</ul>
The Cons
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li3">Building a factory is extremely expensive. We&rsquo;re talking billions of dollars in construction, labor, and logistics.</li>
<li class="li3">It takes years to design, build, and scale a facility that can match DJI&rsquo;s current production levels in China.</li>
<li class="li3">The supply chain for critical drone components is still heavily tied to Asia, meaning DJI couldn&rsquo;t truly escape global dependencies.</li>
</ul>
In short, while this sounds great on paper, it may be a long shot in practice. By the time a U.S. factory is up and running, the drone landscape could look very different.
<h5 class="p4">Option 2: Partner with a Major U.S. Company</h5>
The second option is more practical in the short term: DJI could partner with a well-established U.S. company. Imagine DJI teaming up with a tech giant like Apple, Amazon. By aligning with a U.S. brand, DJI might soften political opposition and create a hybrid product that feels less &ldquo;foreign&rdquo; while still delivering the innovation they&rsquo;re known for.
The Pros
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li3">Faster than building a U.S. factory.</li>
<li class="li3">Creates a sense of legitimacy through collaboration with a trusted American company.</li>
<li class="li3">Could help DJI maintain its market share in the U.S. while avoiding a full ban.</li>
<li class="li3">&nbsp;</li>
<li class="li3">The Cones</li>
<li class="li3">Partnerships often require compromise. DJI might lose some control over design, branding, or pricing.</li>
<li class="li3">Profits would be shared, and DJI may not like giving up part of its dominance.</li>
<li class="li3">Political pushback might still linger, since critics could argue it&rsquo;s still &ldquo;DJI tech in disguise.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
Still, this path is more realistic. Big companies have partnered across borders before, and if the right deal were struck, it could allow DJI to stay relevant in the U.S. without starting from scratch.
<h5 class="p4">Option 3: License Their Technology to Other Brands</h5>
This option is one we&rsquo;re already seeing in action. DJI has the ability to license its technology to other companies, who then rebrand and sell drones under different names. Examples include Anzu Robotics, Specta Air, and Skyrover. In other words, DJI provides the brains and guts of the drone, but the name on the box belongs to someone else. In Manny cases, these drones appear to be identical in terms of the outer shell, maybe with a change of color and so forth, but at the end of the day it&rsquo;s clearly DJI&rsquo;s footprint.
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li3">The Pros</li>
<li class="li3">Keeps DJI&rsquo;s innovations in the market without DJI being directly involved.</li>
<li class="li3">Allows U.S.-based companies to sell drones with trusted technology.</li>
<li class="li3">Avoids some of the political baggage tied to DJI&rsquo;s brand name.</li>
<li class="li3">The Cons</li>
<li class="li3">Dilutes the DJI brand, which has become synonymous with drone excellence.</li>
<li class="li3">Consumers might feel confused or skeptical if too many &ldquo;DJI lookalikes&rdquo; flood the market.</li>
<li class="li3">DJI earns less than if they sold drones directly, since revenue comes through licensing.</li>
</ul>
Think of it this way: buying a licensed drone from another company is a bit like eating generic cereal. It might taste the same, but it just doesn&rsquo;t feel like the real deal when the box doesn&rsquo;t say Fruit Loops. That being said, this option is probably the most immediate and realistic path forward. DJI gets to continue profiting, consumers still get access to their tech, and U.S. lawmakers can point to American companies as the sellers.
<h5 class="p4">So, Which Option Makes the Most Sense?</h5>
Each of these paths has its strengths and weaknesses. Building a U.S. factory sounds patriotic but might be too costly and slow. Partnering with a major U.S. company could work but would require compromise. Licensing tech seems like the easiest short-term move, but it risks watering down DJI&rsquo;s brand identity. If I had to place a bet, I&rsquo;d say DJI will lean more heavily on licensing in the near future. It&rsquo;s the least disruptive option, keeps their technology in the market, and gives U.S. companies room to grow while still relying on DJI&rsquo;s expertise. But that doesn&rsquo;t mean the other options are off the table. DJI is a global powerhouse, and if the U.S. market is important enough to them, we may see some combination of these strategies unfold.
<h5 class="p4">The Bigger Picture</h5>
At the end of the day, the DJI ban is about more than just drones. It&rsquo;s about international politics, security concerns, and the balancing act between innovation and regulation. For us as drone pilots, it can feel frustrating to have the tools we love caught in the middle of something so complex. But there&rsquo;s also opportunity here. Whether DJI adapts by building, partnering, or licensing, the drone industry as a whole will evolve. New players will rise, competition will increase, and we might even see more innovation come out of this than we expect. The question is: are we ready for it?
<h5 class="p4">Final Thoughts</h5>
The drone world is changing quickly, and DJI is at a crossroads. Whatever path they choose, it will shape not just their future, but the future of drones in the U.S. market. So now I want to turn the question over to you: Which option do you think DJI should pursue? Do you like the idea of U.S.-made DJI drones? Would you feel comfortable buying a rebranded DJI drone through another company? Or do you think a big partnership makes the most sense? Drop your thoughts in the comments below &mdash; I&rsquo;d love to hear your perspective. And if you&rsquo;d like to dive deeper into this discussion, check out my latest video on YouTube channel, &ldquo;Inspire With Drones,&rdquo; where I unpack this topic in even more detail: https://youtu.be/sjIfQpbGaUo As always &mdash; fly safe, fly smart, and stay tuned.
<h5 class="p3">Watch the "Tim Talk" on DJI</h5>
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Can DJI Beat the U.S. Drone Ban?

02 September 2025
<a href="https://www.sphengineering.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SPH Engineering</a> has announced the release of the MBES system for UAV (unmanned aerial vehicles) utilizing <a href="https://ceruleansonar.com/product/surveyor-240-16/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cerulean Surveyor 240-16</a>, a compact multibeam echosounder (MBES). Available immediately, the payload expands the capabilities of drone-based bathymetric and hydrographic surveys by delivering dense, high-resolution bathymetric data over shallow waters.
The Surveyor 240-16 operates at 240 kHz with a measurement range of 0.5&ndash;50 m, making it suitable for inland waterways, reservoirs, ports, and environmental monitoring sites. Unlike traditional single-beam payloads, the MBES generates a swath up to 80-degree cross-track, with a 16-element receive array and angular resolution down to 1 degree, enabling operators to map a wide bottom coverage per flight line.
<h5>Integration with UAV Workflows</h5>
The new payload is designed to work seamlessly with SPH Engineering&rsquo;s UgCS flight planning software and SkyHub onboard computer, allowing extremely precise and automated missions. With a total weight of 2.4 kg (all components in air) and a power consumption of only 15 W, the Surveyor 240-16 is compatible with UAVs such as DJI M300/M350/M400 and Inspired Flight IF800/IF1200.
<h5>Field Validation at Titutga Lake</h5>
In August 2025, SPH Engineering conducted a measurement campaign at Titutga Lake (Latvia) using the MBES payload. Flights were performed at an average survey speed of 1.2 m/s, a benchmark found to balance data density with UAV endurance. The MBES provided a step-change in efficiency by capturing high resolution bottom details. The system&rsquo;s performance was also benchmarked against single-beam payloads, which remain valuable as QC tools for MBES datasets. The combined approach demonstrated how drone-based hydrography can achieve both high-resolution mapping and robust validation in environments previously inaccessible or unsafe for boat-based systems.
<h5>Technical Differentiators</h5>
<ul>
<li>Frequency: 240 kHz</li>
<li>Measurement Range: 5 &ndash; 50 m</li>
<li>Beam Geometry: 4&deg; along-track TX; 7&deg; cross-track RX (conventional beamforming)</li>
<li>Angular Resolution: 1&deg; (angle-of-arrival processing)</li>
<li>Range Resolution: 5% of range setting</li>
<li>Power Consumption: 15 W</li>
<li>Integrated Sensors: Tilt/roll, temperature</li>
<li>Weight: 8 kg (sensor and mounting only), 2.4 kg (all components)</li>
<li>Software Compatibility: Fully supported in BeamworX, with Hydromagic integration planned</li>
</ul>
<h5>Expert Commentary</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/aMaJZbQKZ1bOYDwvFzDq3W27JgT4n1AMMICQ4uEx.jpg" alt="" width="460" height="306" />
Cerulean Surveyor 240-16&nbsp;
"The payload based on Cerulean Surveyor 240-16 represents a milestone in drone-based bathymetry," said Alexey Dobrovolskiy, CEO of SPH Engineering. "By combining multibeam technology with UAV platforms, we are enabling hydrographers to collect dense bathymetric datasets at a fraction of the time and cost of conventional systems. This integration opens new opportunities for surveying reservoirs, lakes, and coastal areas that were previously inaccessible or unsafe."
<h5>About SPH Engineering</h5>
SPH Engineering is an expert in drone technology development, providing UAV software solutions, integration services, and custom development to advance drone applications for surveying, data collection and processing, and entertainment. Founded in 2013 in Latvia, SPH Engineering has a global customer and partner network in over 150 countries.
<h5>Webinar on Bathymetry Using MBES</h5>
<iframe style="width: 665px; height: 374px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yu3jVuVzjE4?si=deI72p6zaD-Nnx-0" width="665" height="374" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h5>Surveyor 240-16 MBES in Action</h5>
<iframe style="width: 670px; height: 377px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aSIajxTDSsk?si=R25jUP-zFuFB4PBi" width="670" height="377" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

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