Deployable UAV

Discipline: MAE

Advisor: Marino Nader

The Deployable UAV project provides small military units operating in hostile environments rapid aerial situational awareness without relying on bulky, complex, costly systems. Current reconnaissance UAVs often require multiple operators, bulky transport cases, or fixed infrastructure to deploy, while smaller multirotor drones are slow, noisy, and limited in range and survivability. This project bridges that gap by developing a compact, high-speed fixed-wing UAV carried by a single operator in a standard rucksack, providing immediate intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability. The system is designed to weigh less than five pounds, deploy in under ten minutes, and sustain flight speeds near 120 mph while transmitting live video to the user. The aircraft integrates a rapidly producible, lightweight, FDM printed airframe, electric propulsion system, onboard camera, and long-range radio communication link. The UAV is easily deployed by a foot soldier to scout ahead for ambushes, examine terrain, or monitor enemy movement without exposing personnel to unnecessary risk. By prioritizing speed, portability, and rapid deployment, the Deployable UAV provides small units with a practical reconnaissance tool that improves decision-making, while reducing risk to personnel and increasing situational awareness in dynamic combat environments where time and mobility are critical.

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