UAV & Drones
Texas DPS Deploys First Helicopter-Mounted Drone Detection System
Texas DPS enhances airspace security by deploying ACUS, detecting drones and geolocating operators in real-time for proactive law enforcement.
The proliferation of unmanned aerial systems, or drones, has reshaped industries from cinematography to logistics. As these devices become more accessible and capable, they also introduce complex challenges for public safety. The same drone that can capture stunning wedding photos can also be used to smuggle contraband, conduct illicit surveillance, or dangerously interfere with emergency response aircraft. This dual-use nature has pushed law enforcement agencies to seek new methods for monitoring and securing the low-altitude airspace above our communities.
In this evolving landscape, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has established itself as a formidable leader. The agency operates what is considered the largest law enforcement drone program in the United States, with hundreds of certified pilots and aircraft. In 2023 alone, the program logged over 49,000 flights, tackling missions that ranged from wildfire mapping and crash reconstruction to supporting tactical operations on the border. This extensive experience has given Texas DPS a unique, firsthand understanding of both the potential and the perils of drone technology, positioning them to pioneer the next step in airspace security.
That next step has now been taken. Texas DPS has become the first public safety agency in the nation to deploy a revolutionary helicopter-mounted system capable of detecting not only unauthorized drones but also pinpointing the location of their operators on the ground in real-time. This strategic enhancement to their aerial fleet represents a significant shift from a reactive to a proactive security posture, equipping officers with unprecedented situational awareness and the ability to address drone-related threats at their source.
The technology at the heart of this advancement is the Airborne Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ACUS), developed by Davenport Aviation. It is the first aircraft-mounted counter-drone system designed specifically with the needs of public safety and law enforcement aviation units in mind. Rather than a one-size-fits-all military solution, ACUS is tailored for integration into existing police aircraft, providing a critical layer of security without requiring a complete overhaul of their operational workflow.
At its core, the ACUS system functions as a sophisticated passive radio frequency (RF) detection unit. This means it continuously scans the airwaves for the specific command-and-control signals used to operate most commercial and consumer drones. Once a signal is detected, the system alerts the flight crew through their existing onboard multi-functional displays, seamlessly integrating the new data into their mission computer. This provides a 360-degree bubble of awareness around the helicopter, ensuring no unauthorized drone goes unnoticed.
The system’s most transformative feature, however, is its ability to go beyond simple detection. While knowing a drone is nearby is useful, the critical question for law enforcement has always been: who is flying it? ACUS answers this by providing precise geolocation data for both the drone and its ground-based pilot. This capability closes a major intelligence gap, allowing air crews to direct ground units to the operator’s exact location, effectively neutralizing a potential threat before it can escalate.
The integration is designed to be intuitive, allowing flight crews to interrogate and interact with alerts to better understand the airspace around them. This is particularly vital in crowded skies where friendly law enforcement drones, media drones, and civilian drones might be operating simultaneously during a major incident. The system gives officers the clarity to distinguish between legitimate and potentially malicious actors.
“We’re excited to integrate this cutting-edge airborne drone detection system into our law enforcement helicopter operations. It’ll be a game-changer for situational awareness and public safety.”, Marcus Tomerlin, Assistant Chief at Texas DPS.
The deployment of ACUS by Texas DPS is more than a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic evolution in how law enforcement protects both its personnel and the public. The system directly addresses some of the most pressing dangers that have emerged in the drone era, providing practical solutions for complex, real-world scenarios. One of the most significant risks is a mid-air collision between a drone and a manned aircraft. Such incidents can have catastrophic consequences, especially during high-stakes operations. A recent event in California, where a drone struck a “super scooper” firefighting plane and forced it out of service during an emergency, highlights the very real danger. The ACUS system serves as a crucial safeguard, giving pilots the advanced warning needed to avoid collisions and maintain safe separation.
This is especially important during disaster response missions, such as hurricanes or wildfires, where the airspace can become congested. Multiple agencies, media outlets, and civilians may launch drones to assess the situation, creating a chaotic and hazardous environment for rescue helicopters and other official aircraft. ACUS allows DPS crews to deconflict this airspace, ensuring their missions can continue without interference. The agency plans to field the system during critical operations like border patrol, criminal surveillance, and disaster response, where mission integrity is paramount.
By identifying the operator, the ACUS system allows law enforcement to shift from a reactive to a proactive security model. Previously, dealing with a rogue drone often meant trying to track and capture the device itself. Now, authorities can address the individual in control. This is a fundamental change with broad implications for securing large-scale public events, protecting critical infrastructure, and preventing criminal activities like drone-based surveillance or contraband delivery.
This investment is a logical progression for an agency as deeply involved in drone operations as Texas DPS. Their extensive use of unmanned systems has provided them with an unparalleled understanding of the technology’s capabilities and vulnerabilities. This new counter-drone capability is built on that foundation of experience. As Davenport Aviation is already in discussions with other agencies across the country, the pioneering work being done by Texas DPS may very well set a new standard for airborne law enforcement nationwide.
The adoption of the ACUS system by the Texas Department of Public Safety marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to safely integrate drones into society. It represents a powerful new tool for managing the increasingly complex low-altitude airspace, providing a targeted and effective response to potential threats without resorting to more disruptive or destructive measures. The ability to precisely locate an operator fundamentally changes the dynamic of drone security, emphasizing accountability and direct intervention.
As drone technology continues to advance, the systems designed to monitor and counter them will undoubtedly evolve as well. The lessons learned from the deployment of ACUS in Texas will be invaluable, likely shaping the tactics, techniques, and procedures for law enforcement agencies across the nation. This development is a clear signal that the future of public safety requires not only embracing new technologies but also building the sophisticated safeguards needed to manage them responsibly.
Question: What is the new technology the Texas DPS is using on its helicopters? Question: How does the ACUS system work? Question: Why is locating the drone operator so important? Question: Is Texas DPS the only agency with this technology? Sources: Texas Department of Public Safety
Eyes in the Sky Get a Major Upgrade: Texas DPS Deploys Advanced Drones Detection
A New Frontier in Aerial Awareness: The ACUS Technology
How It Works: From Detection to Geolocation
Strategic Implications for Public Safety and Security
Protecting Critical Missions and Manned Aircraft
A Proactive Stance on Emerging Threats
The Future of Airspace Security
FAQ
Answer: The technology is called the Airborne Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ACUS), developed by Davenport Aviation. It is an aircraft-mounted system that detects drones and geolocates their pilots.
Answer: It uses passive radio frequency (RF) detection to identify the control signals of drones. It then alerts the helicopter crew and provides the precise location of both the drone and its operator on the ground.
Answer: Locating the operator allows law enforcement to intervene at the source of a potential threat. This is crucial for preventing illegal activities, ensuring accountability, and neutralizing dangers without having to physically intercept the drone itself.
Answer: Yes, the Texas Department of Public Safety is the first public service agency in the United States to procure and deploy the ACUS system on its aircraft.
Photo Credit: Texas DPS
UAV & Drones
SwissDrones Sells First SDO 50 V3 Unmanned Helicopter in Japan
SwissDrones delivers first SDO 50 V3 turbine drone to Sanwa Gikou in Japan for industrial inspections and disaster logistics.
This article is based on an official press release from SwissDrones.
SwissDrones, a manufacturer of long-range unmanned helicopters systems, has announced a significant expansion into the Asia-Pacific market with the first sale of its SDO 50 V3 aircraft in Japan. The launch customer, Sanwa Gikou Co., Ltd., a specialized civil engineering firm based in Kitakyushu, intends to utilize the heavy-lift drone for industrial inspections, disaster response, and logistics across the Kyushu, Yamaguchi, and West Shikoku regions.
According to the company’s announcement, the transaction was facilitated by HIEN Aero Technologies, the strategic partner and distributor for SwissDrones in Japan. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Sanwa Gikou as it establishes a new “Large Drone Business” division, aiming to leverage autonomous aviation to address regional labor shortages and infrastructure maintenance challenges.
Sanwa Gikou, traditionally known for pipe rehabilitation and specialized industrial coatings, is diversifying its operations to include advanced aerial capabilities. The company plans to deploy the SDO 50 V3 for a variety of critical missions, including aerial surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), and the inspection of vital assets such as pipelines and bridges.
In a statement regarding the acquisition, Sanwa Gikou leadership emphasized the potential for integrating air and land logistics.
“The SDO 50 V3 provides new opportunities to strengthen regional public services… and explore innovative air–land integrated models.”
Isao Umebayashi, President of Sanwa Gikou Co., Ltd.
The deployment is closely tied to the “Regional Collaboration & Future Hybrid Logistics Council,” an initiative aiming to create a resilient supply chain network. By combining ground transport with high-capacity drones, the council hopes to ensure the delivery of essential supplies to isolated villages and mountainous areas, particularly during natural disasters when roads may be impassable.
The SDO 50 V3 distinguishes itself from common battery-powered quadcopters through its turbine-based propulsion and intermeshing twin-rotor design (Flettner system). Designed for heavy industrial use, the aircraft runs on Jet A1 fuel, allowing for rapid refueling and extended operational uptime compared to battery-dependent systems. According to technical specifications released by SwissDrones, the SDO 50 V3 offers the following capabilities:
HIEN Aero Technologies will oversee the importation, pilot training, and ongoing technical support for the aircraft, ensuring compliance with Japanese aviation standards.
The timing of this acquisition aligns with broader socio-economic shifts in Japan, specifically the “2024 Problem”, a term referring to the critical labor shortages in logistics and construction due to an aging population and stricter overtime regulations. The Japanese government has responded by updating the Civil Aeronautics Act to allow “Level 4” autonomy, which permits fully autonomous flights beyond visual line of sight over populated areas.
This regulatory framework is essential for the commercial viability of long-range drones like the SDO 50 V3. By automating inspections and emergency transport, companies like Sanwa Gikou aim to maintain infrastructure integrity and public safety with fewer human personnel.
The Turbine Advantage in Complex Terrain
While battery-electric VTOLs (eVTOLs) often dominate the headlines, the sale of the turbine-powered SDO 50 V3 highlights a persistent gap in the market: energy density. For missions in Japan’s Kyushu and Shikoku regions, characterized by steep mountains, heavy winds, and scattered islands, battery technology often struggles to provide the necessary range and payload endurance.
We assess that the choice of a turbine helicopter is a pragmatic decision for Sanwa Gikou. The ability to refuel in minutes rather than recharge for hours is a decisive factor for disaster relief scenarios where every minute counts. Furthermore, the Flettner rotor design provides superior stability in high winds compared to traditional tail-rotor helicopters or multi-copters, making it uniquely suited for Japan’s coastal environments. This deal suggests that despite the push for electrification, liquid-fuel systems remain the superior choice for heavy-duty, long-endurance industrial aviation in the near term.
What is the primary use for the SDO 50 V3 in Japan? Who is the manufacturer of the drone? What makes this drone different from standard battery drones?
SwissDrones Secures First Japanese Buyer for SDO 50 V3 Unmanned Helicopter
Strategic Deployment for Civil Engineering and Safety
Technical Capabilities: The SDO 50 V3
Key Performance Metrics
Market Context: Japan’s “2024 Problem”
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sanwa Gikou will use the aircraft for infrastructure inspection, disaster response, search and rescue, and emergency logistics in the Kyushu and Yamaguchi regions.
The drone is manufactured by SwissDrones, a company based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializing in unmanned helicopter systems.
The SDO 50 V3 is powered by a turbine engine using jet fuel, which allows it to carry heavier loads (40kg+) and fly longer (3+ hours) than most battery-powered equivalents.
Sources
Photo Credit: SwissDrones
UAV & Drones
Rotron Aerospace and LIG Nex1 Sign Deal to Develop Next-Gen UAVs
Rotron Aerospace and LIG Nex1 partner to co-develop hybrid VTOL UAV platforms for South Korea’s Army, emphasizing heavy-fuel rotary engine tech.
This article is based on an official press release from Rotron Aerospace and LIG Nex1.
On December 9, 2025, UK-based propulsion specialist Rotron Aerospace and South Korean defense prime LIG Nex1 formalized a significant strategic partnership. Signed at Rotron’s headquarters in Dorset, United Kingdom, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishes a long-term collaboration aimed at co-developing next-generation unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms. The agreement, which remains valid until 2032, focuses primarily on the Medium UAV Common Platform (MUCP), a tactical hybrid drone program designed for the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA).
According to the joint announcement, this collaboration leverages the specific strengths of both nations’ defense industries. Rotron Aerospace will supply its advanced heavy-fuel rotary propulsion systems, while LIG Nex1 will lead the system architecture, platform integration, and overall program management. The deal underscores the deepening defense ties between the United Kingdom and South Korea following the 2023 Downing Street Accord.
The centerpiece of this agreement is the MUCP, a hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drone intended for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. LIG Nex1, having been awarded the tender by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) in August 2024, is moving rapidly toward flight testing, which is expected to commence in 2026.
The platform utilizes a hybrid configuration featuring four fixed rotors for vertical lift and a single pusher propeller for forward flight. This design eliminates the need for runways while maintaining the endurance and speed associated with fixed-wing aircraft. According to technical specifications released regarding the program, the MUCP targets a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of approximately 340 kg and a payload capacity of 30 kg.
Rotron’s contribution is critical to the platform’s performance. The company specializes in Wankel-type rotary engines, which are favored in the UAV sector for their high power-to-weight ratio and low vibration profiles, essential characteristics for stabilizing sensitive ISR sensors. Crucially, Rotron has engineered these engines to operate reliably on heavy fuels such as JP-8 and Jet-A1, meeting the NATO Single Fuel Policy requirements that simplify military logistics.
“Rotron is proud to partner with LIG Nex1… This agreement reflects our commitment to delivering high-performance propulsion and aviation systems that enhance the capability, reliability, and operational reach of next-generation unmanned platforms.”
Gilo Cardozo, CTO & Founder, Rotron Aerospace
While the immediate focus is the domestic South Korean market, both companies have explicitly stated their intention to target global exports, specifically within the Pacific Rim and Europe. The partnership allows LIG Nex1 to secure a sovereign supply chain for critical propulsion components while providing Rotron access to major Asian defense markets. Yoon Kwan-seob, Vice President of Aerospace & Drone Business at LIG Nex1, highlighted the synergy between the two firms in a statement regarding the signing:
“By combining our experience in integrated system development with Rotron’s leading propulsion technologies, we aim to advance the Medium UAV Common Platform and expand opportunities for both domestic Republic of Korea programmes and international exports.”
Yoon Kwan-seob, VP of Aerospace & Drone Business, LIG Nex1
The selection of Rotron for the MUCP program highlights a persistent engineering bottleneck in the tactical UAV sector: the heavy-fuel requirement. While battery technology has improved, it still lacks the energy density required for the 5+ hour endurance missions targeted by the MUCP. Furthermore, traditional piston engines often struggle with the combustion characteristics of heavy military fuels like JP-8, particularly in smaller form factors.
By integrating Rotron’s rotary technology, LIG Nex1 appears to be prioritizing reliability and logistical commonality over the simplicity of electric-only systems. This hybrid approach, using electric lift for VTOL and heavy-fuel combustion for cruise, is becoming the standard architecture for modern tactical drones (Group 3 UAVs) that require runway independence without sacrificing range.
Sources: Satellite Evolution Group
Rotron Aerospace and LIG Nex1 Sign Strategic Deal for Next-Gen UAV Propulsion
The Medium UAV Common Platform (MUCP)
Propulsion Technology
Strategic Implications and Export Goals
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Satellite Evolution Group
UAV & Drones
Unusual Machines Signs Supplier Deal with Dynamic Aerospace Systems
Unusual Machines becomes Tier-1 supplier to Dynamic Aerospace Systems, providing NDAA-compliant drone components for defense and commercial platforms.
This article is based on an official press release from Unusual Machines, Inc..
On December 8, 2025, Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC) announced a new strategic supplier agreement with Dynamic Aerospace Systems (DAS), a developer of next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS). According to the company’s official statement, this partnership positions Unusual Machines as a key Tier-1 domestic supplier of critical Drones components, specifically designed to meet strict U.S. regulatory standards.
Under the terms of the agreement, Unusual Machines will provide flight controllers, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), motors, and other subsystems to DAS. These components will be integrated into DAS’s commercial and defense platforms, marking a significant step in Unusual Machines’ efforts to onshore the drone supply chain and reduce industry reliance on foreign technology.
The core of this agreement focuses on compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and “Blue UAS” standards. As stated in the press release, the components supplied by Unusual Machines are fully compliant with these federal requirements, which are essential for securing U.S. government and defense Contracts.
Dynamic Aerospace Systems, a DBA of BrooQLy, Inc. (OTCQB: BRQL), intends to integrate these American-made components immediately into its existing production lines. The announcement highlights two specific platforms that will utilize the new hardware:
“This agreement validates Unusual Machines’ strategy to become a Tier-1 domestic supplier in the drone industry and supports DAS’s expansion into international markets.”
, Unusual Machines Press Release
While the agreement bolsters domestic defense capabilities, the press release also outlines significant international implications. Dynamic Aerospace Systems is currently engaged in active commercial programs abroad that will benefit from this supply chain Partnerships.
According to the announcement, the collaboration supports DAS’s planned deployments in the United Arab Emirates with the noon Group and in Greece with Drops Smart Hubs. These programs are focused on autonomous pilot delivery, commercial logistics, and infrastructure monitoring, demonstrating the dual-use nature of the technology for both defense and industrial sectors. This supplier agreement follows a period of rapid operational expansion for Unusual Machines. To provide context to the current deal, recent financial data indicates the company is scaling its infrastructure to meet rising demand.
According to recent market reports and company filings referenced in conjunction with this announcement, Unusual Machines reported its first profitability in Q3 2025, with revenue reaching $2.13 million. Furthermore, in October 2025, the company raised approximately $72.1 million via an “at-the-market” (ATM) offering. These funds appear to be fueling their physical expansion, including the addition of a 25,000-square-foot warehouse and fulfillment center in Orlando, Florida, announced on November 5, 2025.
From Hobbyist Roots to Defense Tier-1
We view this agreement as a pivotal moment in Unusual Machines’ corporate evolution. Historically known for its consumer-facing brands like Fat Shark and Rotor Riot, the company is aggressively pivoting toward the high-value defense and industrial sectors. By securing a supplier role for kinetic interceptors (The Breacher) and ISR platforms (The Sentinel), UMAC is effectively validating its thesis that the U.S. drone industry requires a bifurcated Supply-Chain, moving away from Chinese-dominated components toward NDAA-compliant domestic alternatives.
The timing is also notable. With the recent $25 million strategic Investments in XTI Aerospace closed in November 2025, Unusual Machines is consolidating its influence across the broader Aerospace sector, moving beyond simple component retail into complex systems integration support.
Sources: Unusual Machines Press Release, Unusual Machines Investor Relations
Unusual Machines Secures Strategic Supplier Deal with Dynamic Aerospace Systems
Strengthening the Domestic Supply Chain
International Expansion and Commercial Applications
Corporate Context and Recent Growth
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Unusual Machines
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