- Teledyne FLIR Defense upgrades Black Hornet 4 nano-drone, enhancing range and usability.
- New features include a 50% increase in radio communication range and an improved Android tablet.
- Black Hornet's upgrades showcased at SOF Week in Tampa, Florida.
Teledyne FLIR Defense, a sector of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (TDY, Financial), has unveiled significant enhancements to its Black Hornet 4 Personal Reconnaissance System. These upgrades aim to optimize operational effectiveness for military personnel, and the details were highlighted during the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week held at the Tampa Convention Center from May 6 to May 8.
The Black Hornet 4's updated features include a notable 50% increase in its radio communications range, extending it from two kilometers to three kilometers under optimal conditions. Additionally, the system now includes a new Android tablet that boasts up to double the battery life of its predecessor and a battery heater designed for cold weather operations. The ergonomics of the tablet have also been enhanced, facilitating ease of use while operators wear gloves.
Designed for superior performance in challenging environments, the Black Hornet 4 is equipped with a 12-megapixel daytime camera and a high-resolution thermal imager, delivering clear video and still imagery. The 70-gram drone can operate for over 30 minutes and more than three kilometers, maintaining functionality in 25-knot winds and rain, with its IP-52 rating for rain resistance.
The upgrades underscore Teledyne FLIR Defense's commitment to advancing the capabilities of its unmanned aerial systems. Since its introduction, more than 33,000 Black Hornet drones have been delivered to military and security forces in over 45 countries. The company continues to support the U.S. Army's Soldier Borne Sensor program, contributing to cumulative orders surpassing $300 million since 2018.
