Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Air Force Funds Research on Wireless Power Beaming for Military Drones to Extend Flight Time
The Air Force has initiated a research project to explore wireless power beaming for drones, led by Reach Power and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s NIMBUS Lab. This effort aims to enable unmanned aircraft to operate longer without needing battery swaps, enhancing their role in military communications and ISR missions. This research is significant as it addresses the critical limitation of battery life in small drones, potentially allowing them to function as persistent communication and surveillance nodes. By reducing the need for frequent landings to recharge, the project could simplify logistics and operational demands on military personnel. Looking ahead, the study will assess the feasibility of using wireless power to sustain perched drones during extended missions. A successful outcome could revolutionize military drone operations, improving battlefield communications and expanding the use of unmanned systems in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance roles. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Innovation Military
Wits University and University of Bordeaux Achieve Breakthrough in Optical Data Transmission
Researchers at Wits University in South Africa and the University of Bordeaux in France have successfully transmitted optical data through turbulent air without loss. This groundbreaking experiment demonstrates that atmospheric distortion can be ignored by encoding information into the topological properties of light, specifically using skyrmions. This advancement is significant as it addresses one of the longstanding challenges in telecommunications: the chaotic nature of Earth's atmosphere that disrupts light signals. Traditional methods often require complex systems to correct for these distortions, but the new approach allows for reliable data transmission even in adverse conditions. Looking ahead, the implications of this research could revolutionize optical communication systems, making them more efficient and less reliant on expensive technology. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Innovation
US Navy tests dual-use laser that beams power and counters drone threats in one system
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has successfully demonstrated a groundbreaking laser system capable of transmitting data at unprecedented speeds. This innovative technology was showcased during a recent test conducted at the laboratory's facilities in Washington, D.C. The demonstration highlights the potential for advanced communication systems that could enhance naval operations and improve data transfer capabilities in various military applications. By utilizing laser technology, the NRL aims to address the growing demand for faster and more secure communication methods in an increasingly digital battlefield. The successful test marks a significant step forward in the development of high-speed data transmission solutions, paving the way for future advancements in military communications.
Military
Breakthrough in Robotics: Robots Equipped with 'Fingertips' Outperform Humans in Balance Beam Challenge
A team of researchers from Hong Kong City University and Southern University of Science and Technology has unveiled an innovative tactile sensor named TAP, which allows robots to detect both the direction and magnitude of force. In a recent experiment involving a balance beam challenge, robots equipped with this technology completed tasks in just 2.4 seconds, achieving an impressive success rate of 81.5%. This performance not only highlights the advanced capabilities of the TAP sensor but also demonstrates a significant improvement over human participants in similar tasks. The development of TAP aims to enhance robotic dexterity and functionality, paving the way for more sophisticated applications in various fields.
Robotics Tactile Sensors AI Automation
Applied Aeronautics Launches SkyBeam Heavy Lift Drone Platform
Applied Aeronautics has unveiled its latest heavy lift quadrotor platform, named SkyBeam, aimed at enhancing capabilities in defense, public safety, and commercial sectors. The Chicago-based company emphasizes the drone's modular design, which allows for increased payload flexibility and rapid deployment, making it suitable for demanding field missions. This innovative aircraft is positioned to meet the growing needs for efficient aerial solutions in various operational environments, combining endurance with cost-effectiveness. The launch of SkyBeam marks a significant advancement in drone technology, catering to a diverse range of applications.
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Kraus Hamdani Aerospace Demonstrates Wireless Power Beaming to K1000ULE at Shaw AFB
Kraus Hamdani Aerospace (KHA) and PowerLight Technologies successfully demonstrated their innovative wireless power beaming technology for the K1000ULE drone at Shaw Air Force Base. This event, hosted by the AFCENT Battle Lab, showcased the capability to sustain continuous intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations without the need for ground recovery. The demonstration highlights the potential of laser-based power transmission to enhance operational efficiency for military applications, aligning with CENTCOM's focus on advancing operational energy innovation.
Defense Drone News Drone News Feeds Long Range News aerial surveillance
A single beam of light runs AI with supercomputer power
Researchers at Aalto University have unveiled a groundbreaking method for performing AI tensor operations using a single pass of light. This innovative technique encodes data directly into light waves, allowing for calculations to be executed simultaneously and passively, without the need for electronic components. The potential integration of this approach into photonic chips could revolutionize the field of artificial intelligence by offering significantly faster and more energy-efficient systems. As the technology advances, it may pave the way for enhanced AI capabilities across various applications.
Kongsberg Discovery Drives Multibeam Innovation with FEMME 2026
Kongsberg Discovery has revealed plans for the 18th Forum for the Exchange of Mutual Multibeam Experiences (FEMME), scheduled to be held in Genoa, Italy, from September 29 to October 2, 2026. This event aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals in the multibeam sonar community, highlighting advancements and best practices in the field. The forum will bring together experts, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss innovations and address challenges related to multibeam sonar technology. By facilitating these exchanges, Kongsberg Discovery seeks to enhance the understanding and application of multibeam systems, ultimately contributing to the advancement of marine research and exploration.
kongsberg discovery multibeam femme 2026 events
Rosenxt Announces Strategic Acquisition of Beam, Expanding Offshore and Subsea Capabilities
Rosenxt UK Ltd., a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Rosenxt Holding AG, has successfully acquired specific assets and talent from Rovco Limited, a subsea robotics and engineering company previously operating in Bristol and Aberdeen. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Rosenxt's capabilities in the subsea sector, leveraging Rovco's expertise and resources to strengthen its market position. The deal underscores Rosenxt's commitment to expanding its operational footprint and technological prowess in the rapidly evolving subsea industry.
rosenxt strategic acquisition beam
Teledyne Marine Launches SeaBat T51-S Multibeam, Setting a New Standard in High Resolution Subsea Mapping
Teledyne Marine has unveiled the SeaBat T51-S multibeam echosounder, the newest addition to its SeaBat T-series, aimed at enhancing subsea exploration capabilities. This advanced echosounder is specifically engineered for deployment on remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), facilitating deep-sea exploration and underwater surveys. The launch follows the success of the flagship SeaBat T51-R, reflecting Teledyne Marine's commitment to innovation in marine technology. The SeaBat T51-S is expected to significantly improve data collection and mapping in challenging underwater environments, supporting various marine research and commercial applications.
teledyne marine seabat t51-s multibeam subsea mapping
HydroSurv and WASPP Multibeam Deliver Turnkey Uncrewed Multibeam Solution to Foyle Marine & Dredging
HydroSurv, in collaboration with Furuno UK's WASSP Multibeam division, has successfully delivered a REAV-28 Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) to Foyle Marine & Dredging. This vessel, equipped with an advanced WASSP multibeam echosounder system, is set to enhance marine construction and dredging operations. The delivery marks a significant milestone as it represents the first implementation of this integrated system, designed to provide cost-effective bathymetric surveys. The partnership aims to improve efficiency and accuracy in underwater mapping, addressing the growing demand for reliable marine survey solutions.
SMD Collaborates with Beam on Offshore AI Innovation
SMD, a company specializing in underwater technology and services, has partnered with Beam, a deep technology firm, to enhance the deployment of autonomous vehicles in challenging offshore environments. This collaboration utilizes Beam’s Pathfinder software, which is designed to optimize the operation of these vehicles in demanding conditions. The initiative aims to improve efficiency and safety in underwater operations, addressing the growing need for advanced technological solutions in marine exploration and resource management. The integration of these technologies marks a significant step forward in the capabilities of autonomous systems in the offshore sector.
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