ISR Drones
Discover cutting-edge solutions from 6 leading global suppliers
Elistair enables persistent surveillance and real-time data transmission in the field by mounting tethered drone platforms directly onto unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs)—particularly valuable in GPS-denied or high-risk environments.
This pairing of ground mobility with continuous aerial oversight transforms how military missions are conducted. UGVs—autonomous systems equipped with sensors, advanced AI, and agile locomotion—carry out tasks such as reconnaissance, resupply, and combat support without an onboard human operator.
Tethered drones further extend their capabilities by providing a reliable aerial vantage point, enhancing situational awareness and increasing operational reach. Together, these integrated platforms reduce risk to personnel while improving tactical effectiveness, marking a shift in how modern military forces approach mission planning and execution.
Real-World Implementations of UGV-Drone Systems
Elistair & Milrem Robotics Collaboration
The partnership between Elistair and Milrem Robotics showcases the potential of UGVs integrated with tethered drone technology. Milrem’s ground platform is equipped with Elistair’s Khronos tethered dronebox, resulting in a system built for persistent aerial monitoring—even in environments without GNSS signals.
This setup combines the aerial data provided by drones with Milrem’s mobile ground platform, creating a versatile solution for key mission needs such as reconnaissance and surveillance in demanding conditions.
ARX Robotics Partnership: Advancing Autonomous Coordination
Through their work with ARX Robotics, Elistair has demonstrated how autonomous UGVs and tethered drones can operate in close coordination. ARX’s GEREON RCS UGV, integrated with Elistair’s Khronos tethered drone system, carried out missions with little human input. Together, these systems showed the ability to navigate difficult terrain and perform ISR functions efficiently.
Key Advantages of UGVs & Tethered Drones
Layered Reconnaissance Capabilities
UGVs are capable of maneuvering across challenging landscapes to detect threats, while a tethered drone can consistently hover above, relaying live aerial imagery. This joint surveillance setup significantly enhances the commander’s field visibility, facilitating faster and more accurate decisions.
In real-world scenarios, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations have illustrated the strength of layered awareness. The joint use of UGVs and tethered drones helps track enemy positions, analyze terrain, and share actionable data in real time. This cohesive system accelerates response times and improves the safety and strategic planning of military units.
Amplified Operational Reach
Deploying a UGV together with a tethered drone acts as a tactical force enhancer. In high-risk zones, safeguarding troops is paramount. These robotic systems increase mission scope without requiring personnel in hazardous areas, meaning more can be accomplished with fewer soldiers on the ground.
For instance, in hostile territory, tethered drones can maintain round-the-clock aerial surveillance while UGVs transport essential equipment or monitor on-ground movements. This persistent observation enables troops to focus on high-level tasks, supported by continuous intelligence gathering. The result is a safer mission environment with more effective use of resources.
Expanded Mission Potential
The combined strengths of tethered drones and UGVs have significantly expanded the types of missions these systems can undertake. UGVs offer dependable ground mobility in rough terrain, while drones provide consistent aerial monitoring. Together, they operate effectively in places where it’s dangerous or impractical to send humans.
Whether conducting extended surveillance or supporting operations in remote combat zones, the UGV-drone system ensures a steady stream of intelligence. This adaptability makes the combined system a key asset in modern mission planning.
AI-Powered Autonomy & Collaboration
Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning have further strengthened the coordination between tethered drones and UGVs. These autonomous platforms now complete complex tasks with minimal operator input. AI enables them to anticipate obstacles, make predictive decisions, and divide tasks efficiently.
Consider a convoy of autonomous UGVs and drones advancing through contested areas. Drones detect hazards ahead, prompting ground vehicles to adjust their paths automatically. Elistair asserts that this level of autonomy will only improve, paving the way for systems that can execute ISR missions and other critical tasks entirely on their own.
