Anzu Robotics, a US-based company licensing technology from DJI, has launched the new Raptor series—drones designed to fill a critical niche for affordable, fully capable survey drones. Sporting a distinctive green finish and backed by master distributor C.R. Kennedy in Australasia, these drones offer both RGB and thermal IR imaging capabilities, catering to users who require secure, high-performance aerial survey tools.
Addressing Security Concerns
In recent years, concerns over the security implications of Chinese-made DJI technology have prompted several organizations—including the Australian Department of Defence, the Australian Border Force, and the US military—to suspend their use of DJI drones. Anzu Robotics aims to alleviate these worries by offering a licensed version of DJI’s technology with a robust security framework:
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- Manufacturing & Assembly: Almost all hardware is produced and assembled in Malaysia.
- Firmware & Quality Control: Drones are shipped to the US for firmware installation and comprehensive quality review.
- Software Partnership: Anzu has partnered with Aloft, a US-based, FAA-approved UAS Service Supplier holding ISO 27001 and SOC 2 TYPE II certifications, ensuring that all flight data is securely encrypted in transit and at rest using AES-256 encryption.
Jeff Bethell, Product Manager at C.R. Kennedy, explains, “The market has been looking for an alternative that isn’t made in China. Particularly when it comes to using drones near critical infrastructure, authorities need to be confident that sensitive information isn’t being relayed to an unwanted source.”
Drone Specifications and Capabilities
Weighing just 1 kg and boasting a flight time of up to 45 minutes, the Raptor series is engineered for extended field operations. Key features include:
- Camera System:
- The Raptor is equipped with a 4/3 CMOS camera offering an 84° field of view, 56x hybrid zoom, and a mechanical shutter to prevent blur.
- Low-light camera mode and multi-camera obstacle avoidance enhance its operational capabilities.
- Enhanced Imaging:
- The RaptorT version adds a built-in high-resolution 640×512 LWIR (long-wave infrared) sensor, which is radiometric. This means users can capture and measure temperature data for every pixel, critical for precise thermal surveys.
Both models are designed to withstand winds of up to 43 kph and can operate at elevations of up to 6,000 metres—more than 2.5 times the height of Mount Kosciuszko—ensuring versatility across various environments.
Two Versions for Diverse Needs
Anzu’s Raptor series comes in two distinct models:
- The Raptor:
Designed for traditional RGB imaging, it features advanced camera optics and obstacle avoidance systems that provide clear and detailed imagery for standard surveys. - The RaptorT:
Incorporating all the features of the Raptor, the RaptorT further integrates thermal IR imaging capabilities. This model is ideal for applications requiring detailed thermal analysis, such as energy audits, infrastructure inspections, and environmental monitoring.
Complete Package and Operational Excellence
Each Raptor drone package is all-inclusive, offering a comprehensive solution for professional survey needs:
- Included Components:
- The airframe with the selected payload
- RTK module for precise geolocation
- Hand controller with a built-in screen and HDMI port
- High-capacity battery and fast-charging station
- Propellers and all relevant manuals
- All securely packed in a hard case with custom foam inserts
- Operational Software:
- The drones are controlled via the Aloft Air Control app, which enables live, low-latency video streaming.
- The app’s flight telemetry playback allows operators to review flight paths and monitor real-time data, simplifying pilot and fleet management.
- Features include tracking pilot certifications, flight hours, aircraft registration, remote ID compliance, and maintenance records—all crucial for seamless operations.
Competitive Pricing and Support
While Anzu’s Raptor models are priced slightly higher than some DJI equivalents, they offer significant added value. The inclusion of an RTK module and charging hub in the package makes them highly competitive, especially for users needing secure and reliable survey capabilities. “Anzu gives you a very competitively priced product that opens up a market niche that DJI could no longer enter,” says Jeff Bethell. For customers, this means access to a product that is not only affordable but also backed by the dependable support of C.R. Kennedy.
Conclusion
In a market increasingly wary of security vulnerabilities associated with Chinese technology, Anzu Robotics’ Raptor series provides a compelling alternative. With robust imaging capabilities, extended flight times, and comprehensive operational support, these drones are set to become an essential tool for surveying sensitive areas. Affordable, reliable, and efficient, the Raptor and RaptorT models are poised to meet the demands of modern survey applications while ensuring that critical data remains secure.
