We are pleased to announce the introduction of the tethered capability for our Beluga-T mini-drone, expanding its applications in defense, law enforcement, public safety, and other critical sectors.

Tethered Drones: A Historical Tradition

Tethered drones have a long history dating back to the 18th century when kites and tethered balloons were used for observation. During World War I, tethered balloons provided aerial surveillance, while in World War II, they served as anti-aircraft barriers. These systems enable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations while maintaining a stable observation point above the ground.

Since 2013, we have developed various solutions based on this technology. One such system, “Cobra,” was mounted on a General Dynamics Cougar 4×4 and deployed by the Italian Army, enhancing the situational awareness of military convoys and compensating for the limited visibility of armored vehicles.

Beluga-T: Designed for Harsh Environments

The Beluga-T mini-drone is designed to offer flexibility and resilience. It operates in extreme conditions, withstanding temperatures ranging from -25°C to 55°C and crosswinds up to 45 km/h. Compliant with the IP67 standard, it is fully protected against dust and water-resistant.

Expanding Beluga with a Tethered Capability

The integration of the tethered capability in Beluga-T ensures greater flight stability and reduced operational risk. This feature allows the drone to operate in GPS-denied environments and withstand challenging weather conditions.

One of the main benefits of the tethered solution is providing an “eye in the sky” in restricted areas. The system can serve as a communication repeater or surveillance tool, making it extremely valuable for military, security, and emergency response operations. Beluga-T is fully operational within two minutes and does not require a trained pilot.

Key Applications of Beluga-T

The tethered Beluga-T can be used in various sectors, including:

  • Military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
  • Artillery support and nuclear, biological, chemical, and radiological (NBCR) detection
  • Law enforcement operations
  • Counter-UAS missions
  • Communication network extension
  • Border and perimeter security
  • Disaster response and recovery
  • Atmospheric data collection
  • Journalism and cinematography
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Precision agriculture

Technical Specifications of Beluga-T

Beluga-T is designed for extended operations with the following features:

  • Payload capacity: Up to 3-4 kg
  • Maximum operational height: 100 meters
  • Endurance: Unlimited (as long as power is supplied)
  • Maximum towed speed: 20 km/h for convoy escort
  • Rapid deployment capability: Fully operational in less than two minutes

Fail-Safe Measures and Future Developments

To ensure safety, Beluga-T includes fail-safe mechanisms to prevent operational failures. In case of power loss or the need to cut the tether, the drone has safety measures to prevent uncontrolled descent.

We continue to innovate, working with the Italian company MIEEG on a micro-hydrogen generator for Beluga-T. Expected in 2025, this compact power source will provide sustainable energy for extended operations, generating the equivalent of 100 kW/h within a 20 kg weight class.

Looking Ahead

The potential applications of Beluga-T are limited only by creativity. We offer customized solutions tailored to specific operational needs. As technology evolves, integrating alternative power sources like micro-hydrogen will further enhance the capabilities of tethered drones across multiple industries.