ARATOR 5C starts testing flights using mobile network

In May 2021, ANAC issued the CAVE (Certificate of Experimental Flight Authorization) for XMobots' Arator RPA to fly using the mobile network, without a radio, i.e. for NRLOS (No-Radio Line of Sight) flights, at a range of 5km, up to 400ft.

Currently, communication between the ground control station and the aircraft is established via radio link. This type of communication has the advantage of being independent of the local infrastructure for operation, but its range is limited to the radio range. With the implementation of this new technology, communication between the ground control station and the aircraft is carried out via the cellular mobile network, expanding the operating capacity to scenarios and conditions that would be unfeasible for the traditional communication system, due to its limitations.

With the expansion of the infrastructure implemented by mobile network operators, as well as the advancement of new technologies in this area, it will be possible in the future to achieve ever greater communication ranges and more stable operations, both in urban and rural environments.

In fact, in Brazil, there are still large and extensive areas that do not have mobile network technology, but as the telecommunications market advances to offer better coverage, drone operations will also be able to move in parallel to perfect the widespread use of the technology.

With the authorization issued, XMobots is starting to use the new technology on a test basis, allowing it to fly beyond sight (BVLOS operations) in more challenging scenarios, such as regions close to urban areas, which already have mobile network coverage.

The maturity of this new technology is one of the gateways to future operations in urban environments, including air traffic management for remotely piloted aircraft, such as XUTM, which is being developed by XMobots for use by aviation authorities, private companies and pilots.

This is yet another step for XMobots in the certification of its aircraft, preparing for the near future of broad or complete mobile network coverage in the country and the development of autonomous drones to offer service opportunities.