U.S.-Made Smart Plane Innovations Enhance Threat Detection and Tactical Flexibility
WingXpand, an autonomous smart plane manufacturer based in St. Louis, Missouri, has announced a new collaboration with Raytheon, an RTX business known for its defense technology. This collaboration aims to advance capabilities in threat detection and operational flexibility for defense and civil applications. Additionally, WingXpand introduced a Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) option for its xRAI™ smart plane, making it suitable for compact and challenging environments.
Raytheon Collaboration Brings Advanced AI to Mission Readiness
Under a U.S. Army contract, WingXpand’s partnership with Raytheon focuses on enhancing real-time threat identification. WingXpand’s smart planes, already equipped with an array of AI-driven algorithms, identify potential threats automatically, providing critical information to soldiers on the ground. This real-time intelligence capability enables quick responses and informed decision-making in dynamic situations.
WingXpand’s adaptable system architecture enables the integration of various applications and payloads. As technology and mission needs evolve, this flexibility allows WingXpand to continue adapting to new defense requirements. Raytheon’s expertise, particularly in the infrared spectrum, enhances these capabilities. “By leveraging this state-of-the-art Infrared AI algorithm, soldiers can receive and share information in real-time that precisely identifies potential threats,” WingXpand states, highlighting the critical role of Raytheon’s technology in enhancing the situational awareness and safety of tactical units.
The integration of Raytheon’s advanced infrared technology with WingXpand’s AI-driven threat detection is expected to transform how the Army executes surveillance and reconnaissance missions, particularly in high-stakes environments.
New VTOL Capability Expands Operational Versatility
In addition to the Raytheon collaboration, WingXpand unveiled a new Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) feature for its xRAI™ smart plane, designed for challenging environments and limited space. The xRAI™, which expands from a backpack, can now launch vertically, offering more flexibility in tight spaces. This new capability enhances the smart plane’s portability and responsiveness, making it suitable for defense, public safety, and infrastructure monitoring.
The VTOL function, paired with the xRAI’s lightweight design, allows it to be deployed rapidly in diverse situations. “By combining VTOL functionality with its lightweight, portable design— xRAI delivers unmatched flexibility and rapid response for defense, public safety, and critical infrastructure missions,” WingXpand states.
Recognized by the U.S. Army and Industry Partners
WingXpand’s adaptability has also attracted attention from key defense and civil organizations. The company recently won the U.S. Army’s xTechSpecialForces competition, highlighting the impact of its customizable and mission-critical technology. This award reflects WingXpand’s ongoing commitment to providing solutions for evolving defense and security needs.
Founded in 2022, WingXpand has quickly gained traction with its backpack-expandable smart plane, designed to meet diverse needs, from agricultural efficiency to disaster response and tactical missions. With the ability to carry up to ten times the weight and fly five times longer than traditional quadcopters, WingXpand’s technology bridges the gap between compact size and high endurance. The company works with the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, and various civil organizations, and it has backing from Techstars in partnership with the U.S. Space Force and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
For more information about WingXpand, visit WingXpand’s website.
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