Canadian startup Landing Zones Canada has successfully flight tested the world’s first high-altitude balloon-launched drone.
According to a press release on 27 January, the test marks the completion of development for the Advanced Payload Delivery System, which included tests under extreme operational and climatic conditions.
Known as the Eagle, the drone is designed for long-range tactical and operational requirements, such as surveillance, intelligence gathering, electronic warfare, and precision strikes.
A versatile drone
Many drones today are designed either as unmanned or manned, despite the progress in drone technology. Eagle pushes the boundaries, is a payload delivery system that can function fully autonomously and also has man-in-the-loop configurations.
Commenting on the test, founder and CEO of Landing Zones Canada Inc. Spence Fraser said.
“With Eagle, we are setting a new benchmark for military drone technology. Its variable wing profile, allowing flights from supersonic to loitering speeds, along with its ability to carry various payloads and perform in GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) contested environments, positions Eagle as a game-changer for military operations worldwide.”
Featuring a variable wing profile, the drone is designed for effortless transition from supersonic speeds to low loitering speeds as the mission demands.
It is able to fly at more than 50 kilometers (31 miles) above the Earth’s surface, which is a significantly high altitude. Although no estimates were given, the firm says the drone is built for speed and endurance with versatility in its use.
Beating China
China has recently been at the forefront of military technology, with different war equipment being showcased especially last year.
The country has also been working on balloon-launched drone swarms for its defense forces, but it seems Landing Zones Canada has beaten it to the game this time, as the Eagle is the first of its kind balloon-launched payload delivery system.