New U.S.-Made quadrotor targets defense, public safety, and commercial operations with modular design and lower cost Applied Aeronautics has introduced SkyBeam, a new heavy lift quadrotor platform designed for defense, public safety, and commercial operations. The company says the aircraft focuses on endurance, payload flexibility, and rapid deployment for demanding field … [Read more...] about Applied Aeronautics Launches SkyBeam Heavy Lift Drone Platform
Drone Manufacturing
ePropelled Launches Integrated Power System for Agricultural Drones
New propulsion platform targets growing precision agriculture UAV market As agricultural drone adoption continues to expand worldwide, ePropelled has introduced a new integrated propulsion and power system designed specifically for agricultural UAVs. The company announced the launch on May 13, positioning the platform as a response to growing demand for more efficient and … [Read more...] about ePropelled Launches Integrated Power System for Agricultural Drones
Michigan’s Bet on the Low Altitude Economy: How M Air Connects Aerospace Innovation and Detroit Manufacturing
At XPONENTIAL 2026 this week, leaders from University of Michigan outlined an ambitious vision for the future of drones and advanced air mobility (AAM): one where Michigan becomes a central hub for the emerging low altitude economy by combining aerospace innovation with Detroit’s industrial manufacturing strength. DRONELIFE had the opportunity for a meaningful discussion with … [Read more...] about Michigan’s Bet on the Low Altitude Economy: How M Air Connects Aerospace Innovation and Detroit Manufacturing
Drone Dominance: The Defense Department’s Push to Build a Scalable U.S. Drone Supply Chain
At this morning’s keynote roundtable at XPONENTIAL 2026, government and industry leaders outlined a new phase in the effort to scale the U.S. drone industry: moving from innovation and prototype development to industrial production, supply chain scrutiny, and rapid military acquisition. Moderated by Michael Robbins of AUVSI, the panel focused on the Department of Defense’s … [Read more...] about Drone Dominance: The Defense Department’s Push to Build a Scalable U.S. Drone Supply Chain
Can America Build a Fully Domestic Drone? Lithium Discovery Moves the Needle
New USGS findings highlight potential for domestic lithium supply, but key gaps remain in the battery chain A new study from the U.S. Geological Survey suggests that lithium deposits in the eastern United States could meet domestic demand for generations. While the announcement focuses on energy and electric vehicles, it also raises an important question for the drone … [Read more...] about Can America Build a Fully Domestic Drone? Lithium Discovery Moves the Needle
