Israeli defense tech firms Maris-Tech and FlightOps have teamed up to develop a payload suite that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and streaming technology to help unmanned aerial systems fly smarter and more independently.
The platform pairs Maris-Tech’s Uranus Drones hardware, built for audio and video capture, with FlightOps’ command-and-control software, which automates a variety of flight management tasks.
This setup lets drones analyze video in real time, make quick decisions, and fly past an operator’s line of sight using 5G networks. Onboard data processing also enables faster, safer responses without relying on cloud connections.
The companies said the new payload allows drones to spot and react to what’s happening midflight without constant human oversight.
Its small, low-power design also makes it suitable for applications beyond defense, including deliveries, inspections, and public safety.
“We’re proud of our collaboration with FlightOps, whose robot-pilot software has set the standard for autonomous drone operations,” said Israel Bar, CEO at Maris-Tech.
“We believe this joint platform will open new markets by combining edge AI, secure video, and [Beyond Visual Line of Sight] connectivity in a small, efficient package.”
FlightOps CEO Shay Levy added that the partnership will help drone makers and operators move from manual control to full automation.
“By integrating our autonomous ‘robot-pilot’ platform with Maris-Tech’s advanced edge AI and video technology, we aim to enable manufacturers and solution providers to instantly expand their capabilities — from manual piloting to fully autonomous, intelligent flight operations,” Levy said.
