In this week's episode of Weekly Wings, Paul Rossi and Terry Neff delve into a variety of exciting developments in drone technology, autonomous systems, and advanced air mobility. The episode kicks off with the Spray Hawk, an automated agricultural helicopter developed by Rotor Technologies and AG Nav. The hosts discuss its potential to revolutionize aerial applications with cutting-edge navigation software, obstacle detection systems, and autonomous flight capabilities - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/19/rotor-technologies-and-ag-nav-announce-partnership-to-automate-aerial-applications-with-sprayhawk-helicopter/

Next, they explore the fascinating neuromorphic camera, a sensor inspired by the human eye that enables drones to navigate in GPS-denied environments by detecting changes in light. This groundbreaking technology could transform operations in both civilian and defense sectors, especially in areas with unreliable GPS signals - https://spectrum.ieee.org/drone-gps-alternatives and https://www.northropgrumman.com/what-we-do/digital-transformation/neuromorphic-cameras-provide-a-vision-of-the-future

The conversation shifts to drone light shows, with a focus on SPH Engineering’s advanced software that simplifies drone choreography. The hosts examine how accessible technology is fueling creativity in aerial entertainment, including a stunning show celebrating AC Milan's anniversary in Dubai - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/22/cyberdrone-illuminates-dubai-sky-with-drones-celebrating-ac-milans-125th-anniversary/ and https://dronelife.com/2024/11/20/drone-show-creator-by-sph-engineering-revolutionizing-aerial-entertainment-for-creatives-everywhere/

The military’s short-range reconnaissance program also takes center stage, as Red Cat Holdings thermal imaging-equipped Black Widow drones are selected for the U.S. Army’s latest acquisition. The hosts discuss the implications of deploying nearly 6,000 drones for defense operations - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/20/teledyne-flir-selected-for-red-cats-black-widow-us-army-srr-program/

On the regulatory front, Carbonix’s Volanti achieves FAA approval for nationwide BVLOS operations. This milestone enables long-range fixed-wing drones to perform precision tasks across the U.S., highlighting advancements in drone integration into airspace - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/20/carbonix-volanti-achieves-faa-bvlos-approval-pioneering-long-range-fixed-wing-uav-operations-in-the-us/

The episode wraps up with updates on EVTOL technology, as SkyDrive and SAI Flight collaborate to establish electric air taxi routes in South Carolina. The hosts discuss how this partnership represents a step forward in urban air mobility and the future of pilotless transportation - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/21/skydrive-and-sai-flight-collaborate-on-electric-air-taxi-routes-in-south-carolina/ and

In this week’s episode of Weekly Wings, hosts Paul Rossi and Terry Neff dive into the latest drone and aviation developments. The episode begins with a heartwarming story of a missing 4-year-old child in Millersville, located quickly with the help of a drone deployed by local emergency teams and volunteer firefighters. The hosts discuss the critical role of drones in public safety and the collaboration required to make such operations successful - https://smokeybarn.com/missing-4-year-old-found-safe-by-drone-in-under-an-hour-in-millersville/

The conversation then shifts to Skydio's latest $170 million funding round and its implications for the company’s future. Despite the challenges surrounding supply chains and political restrictions, the company is positioning itself as a leader in defense and enterprise drone solutions, including potential contracts across Japan and the U.S. The hosts explore the financial and technological factors driving this growth - https://techcrunch.com/2024/11/15/drone-manufacturer-skydio-raises-170-million-extension-round/

Next, they highlight a major acquisition in battery technology. Lytton’s purchase of Kuberg’s facility in California aims to ramp up production of lithium-sulfur batteries for drones and ground robotics. This development promises to strengthen the U.S. drone and defense industries with domestic battery production, meeting critical supply chain needs - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/13/lyten-acquires-cubergs-facility-to-boost-us-lithium-sulfur-battery-production-for-drone-and-defense-applications/

The hosts also touch on Sikorsky's autonomous Blackhawk helicopter, now branded as the Firehawk. This cutting-edge innovation demonstrates its ability to autonomously suppress wildfires, saving lives and resources while reducing risk to human pilots. The demonstration, attended by FEMA, NASA, and DARPA, showcases the potential of autonomous helicopters in disaster response - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/12/autonomous-black-hawk-helicopter-demonstrates-precise-wildfire-suppression/

Additionally, they preview the upcoming Vets2Drones event at Baltimore's Camden Yards. The event offers a unique opportunity for U.S. military veterans and public safety personnel to network, learn, and fly drones. With free registration and hands-on experience provided, the hosts encourage those in the region to participate - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/12/autonomous-black-hawk-helicopter-demonstrates-precise-wildfire-suppression/

In a fascinating turn, the team highlights efforts in Australia to conserve endangered koalas using thermal drones. These drones help researchers identify koala populations in remote wildlife sanctuaries without disturbing their natural habitats. This groundbreaking application is aiding conservationists in protecting this iconic species and monitoring its health and behavior - https://dronelife.com/2024/11/08/drones-detect-endangered-koalas-in-australias-waulinbakh-wildlife-sanctuary/

In the realm of security, the hosts discuss the deployment of robotic dogs at Mar-a-Lago for U.S. Secret Service operations. These advanced machines provide 24/7 surveillance, GPS tracking, and enhanced situational awa...

In this episode of the Weekly Wings podcast, hosts Paul Rossi, Samuel Stansberry, and Terry Neff dive into a range of engaging topics surrounding drones and technology. They start by sharing personal memories of attending big sporting events, like Yankees games and UFC matches, highlighting how these traditions bring joy and nostalgia.