VECTIS Recon M2 is a modular tactical reconnaissance platform for mission profiles in which sensor performance, payload flexibility and robust system integration are decisive. The UAV combines a high-performance multirotor base with flexible EO/IR sensor payloads, IP-based data transmission and an architecture that can be adapted to different mission requirements.
The platform is suited for airborne situational awareness, mobile reconnaissance tasks and mission-specific integrations in professional and defence-related operational environments. VECTIS Recon M2 represents the compact reconnaissance configuration within the modular VECTIS system family.
Jump to: | Mission Focus | Sensors & AI | Communications | Tether & Operation | Technical Data
Mission Focus
Reconnaissance, Situational Awareness and Modular Sensor Systems
VECTIS Recon M2 is designed for mission profiles in which airborne sensing, flexible payload integration and reliable data transmission are central requirements. Depending on the application, the platform can be equipped with different EO/IR camera systems and additional mission-specific components.
This makes VECTIS Recon M2 suitable for tactical reconnaissance, mobile situational awareness, security-relevant observation tasks and integration into networked operational structures.
Tactical Reconnaissance
Airborne capture of operational areas, movements and relevant situational information using modular EO/IR sensor integration.
Mobile Situational Awareness
Rapid deployment from changing operational positions for current image data and precise situational assessment on site.
Networked Mission Command
IP-based transmission of video streams and system data for integration into mission-relevant communication and evaluation structures.
Specialized Payload Profiles
Flexible configuration with camera-based, sensor-based or customer-specific mission modules depending on the respective mission objective.
Core Features
High-Performance Reconnaissance Platform with Modular System Architecture
VECTIS Recon M2 combines a robust multirotor platform with a flexibly configurable sensor and communications architecture. Rather than relying on a fixed single-purpose system, the platform is designed around mission-oriented configurations that can be adapted to different requirements for situational awareness, data transmission and payload integration.
This makes the platform suitable both for standardized reconnaissance configurations and for specialized applications in which camera systems, data links and additional mission modules need to be coordinated at system level.
Modular EO/IR Sensor Payloads
Depending on the mission profile, VECTIS Recon M2 can be configured with different electro-optical and infrared camera systems.
IP-Based Data Architecture
Video streams, system data and mission-relevant information can be transmitted and processed through a scalable IP-based communications architecture.
Flexible Payload Integration
The platform is designed for the structured integration of different sensors, communications modules and customer-specific mission components.
Mission-Oriented Configuration
VECTIS Recon M2 can be configured either as a standardized reconnaissance variant or as an individually tailored system configuration, depending on the application.
System Architecture
Modular Platform Architecture for Sensors, Data Links and Mission Technology
VECTIS Recon M2 is designed as an open, modularly expandable system platform. Flight platform, sensor payloads, communications components and mission-specific extensions are not treated as isolated subsystems, but integrated as coordinated functional modules.
This enables a wide range of reconnaissance configurations – from compact EO/IR surveillance systems to individually tailored integration solutions for specific requirements in data transmission, sensing and mission command.
Modular Platform Core
The flight platform provides a stable technical foundation for different reconnaissance configurations and mission-specific extensions.
Sensors Matched to the Mission Profile
EO/IR camera systems and additional payload components can be selected according to range, observation task and integration requirements.
Communications as a System Module
Data links, video streaming and IP-based forwarding are designed as integral parts of the overall system configuration.
Adaptable Rather Than Fixed
VECTIS Recon M2 is not limited to a single standard equipment set, but designed for systematic, mission-oriented configuration.
Technical Overview
Key Performance Data at a Glance
The specific configuration of VECTIS Recon M2 may vary depending on payload, communications architecture and mission profile. The following overview summarizes key characteristics of the reconnaissance configuration and provides a concise technical assessment of the platform.
Sensors & AI
High-Performance Reconnaissance with EO/IR Payloads, Tracking and Georeferenced Image Analysis
VECTIS Recon M2 can be equipped with high-performance electro-optical and infrared payloads for demanding reconnaissance and observation tasks. Depending on the configuration, zoom systems with up to 80× total zoom, infrared options up to Full HD IR, and an IP-based video and analysis architecture are available.
In combination with integrated AI functions, the platform enables not only the transmission of image data, but also its targeted analysis. Functions such as Target Tracking, Object Tracking, Multiple Target Tracking and Geolocation support structured situational awareness and mission-related information gathering. In addition, configuration-dependent detection and classification functions can be integrated, including the recognition of persons, vehicles, objects of different size classes, persons floating in water, watercraft and aircraft.
EO/IR Payloads up to 80× Zoom
Depending on the configuration, high-performance reconnaissance payloads with up to 80× total zoom and infrared options up to Full HD IR are available.
AI-Assisted Tracking & Geolocation
Target Tracking, Object Tracking, Multiple Target Tracking and Geolocation support the automated detection, tracking and spatial classification of relevant image objects.
Detection & Classification
Depending on the configuration, the recognition of persons, vehicles and objects, classification by size characteristics, as well as specialized detection functions for persons floating in water, watercraft and aircraft can be integrated.
RTSP and Multistream Architecture
Video data can be output as an IP-based RTSP stream; multi-channel video transmission and multistream configurations are possible.
Communications & Integration
Scalable Data Links, Secure Transmission and Open System Integration
VECTIS Recon M2 uses an IP-based communications and system architecture designed for professional mission networking and flexible integration. Depending on the mission profile, high-performance radio data links with scalable transmission power and ranges extending well beyond 5 km LOS can be used. For typical reconnaissance applications, this provides not only robust operational reserve, but also a high degree of adaptability to operational area, antenna concept and system network.
The internal communications structure is MAVLink 2-based and can be extended with additional interfaces. Video data, payload functions and system information can be processed and transmitted on an IP basis. In addition, integration into higher-level C2, control and mission systems is possible; a UMS integration has already been implemented in practice.
For security-critical applications, encrypted transmission paths can be provided. Depending on the overall configuration, this may include AES-256-based solutions as well as customer-specific extended security architectures for particularly demanding encryption requirements.
Scalable Data Link
Depending on radio module, antenna concept and mission profile, the data link architecture can be scaled in terms of performance. Ranges extending well beyond 5 km LOS are possible depending on the configuration.
MAVLink 2 & Open Interfaces
The communications structure is based on MAVLink 2 and can be extended with additional interfaces. This enables control, telemetry and system functions to be flexibly integrated into customer-specific architectures.
C2 and UMS Integration
VECTIS Recon M2 can be integrated into higher-level control, command and mission systems. A UMS integration has already been implemented in practice.
Encrypted Transmission
For security-critical applications, encrypted data and video connections can be implemented. AES-256-based solutions as well as project-specific extended security architectures can be taken into account.
Redundancy & Operational Reliability
Redundant Power Supply and Precisely Conditioned Flight Control
VECTIS Recon M2 is designed for professional mission profiles with high requirements for operational reliability and reproducible system behaviour. The platform uses a redundant power supply with two 6S batteries, creating a robust dual-channel energy architecture for demanding applications.
The flight control system is likewise designed for precise and stable sensor data. Three inertial measurement units form the basis of the sensor-redundant IMU architecture. Before final parametrization, temperature-dependent correction curves are learned in order to compensate sensor signals more accurately across the relevant temperature range. During operation, the IMUs work under defined thermal conditioning of approximately 45 to 50 °C, ensuring reproducible measurement conditions from the start of the mission.
Redundant 2× 6S Power Supply
VECTIS Recon M2 uses two 6S batteries and is therefore designed around a robust dual-channel power architecture for professional mission profiles.
Three IMUs for Stable Sensor Data
The flight control architecture uses three inertial measurement units, providing a robust sensor foundation for precise and stable flight behaviour.
Temperature-Compensated Calibration
Before final parametrization, temperature correction curves are learned in order to compensate sensor signals more precisely across the relevant temperature range.
Thermally Stabilized IMU Operation
During operation, the IMUs work under defined thermal conditioning of approximately 45 to 50 °C, providing reproducible measurement conditions.
Platform Configuration
Landing Module and Mechanical Configuration Matched to the Mission Profile
VECTIS Recon M2 is mechanically configured according to payload, mission profile and intended operating scenario. Unlike AERIS Recon S7, whose landing gear is designed as an interchangeable module, the landing module configuration of VECTIS is defined as part of the overall system design.
For larger or more voluminous payloads, the M2-T variant can be equipped with a classic T-shaped landing gear. The M2-P variant uses a four-legged landing module and is prepared for applications in which platform landing or future integration into mobile landing platform concepts is intended.
M2-T with T-Shaped Landing Gear
For larger or more voluminous payloads, VECTIS Recon M2 can be equipped with classic T-shaped landing gear. This configuration provides additional clearance beneath the platform.
M2-P for Platform Landing
The M2-P configuration uses a four-legged landing module and is prepared for applications in which platform landing or future integration into mobile landing platform concepts is intended.
Defined by Configuration
The landing module is selected according to payload, mission profile and the overall mechanical concept. On VECTIS, it is not intended as a rapid field-change component.
Distinction from AERIS
While AERIS Recon S7 is designed with an interchangeable landing module, VECTIS configurations are mechanically tailored to the intended mission purpose.
Operating Modes & Tether
Battery Operation for Mobile Missions, Tether Operation for Stationary Long-Endurance Profiles
VECTIS Recon M2 can be deployed in conventional battery operation for mobile, rapidly relocatable reconnaissance missions. In addition, the platform can be prepared for optional tether operation. In this configuration, the UAV is supplied with power from the ground and can therefore be configured for long-duration stationary observation or monitoring tasks.
In addition to power supply, the tether connection can also provide an Ethernet-based data link. This makes VECTIS Recon M2 suitable for scenarios in which a continuously available airborne sensor position, stable IP communication and persistent video transmission are required.
Mobile Battery Operation
For flexibly relocatable reconnaissance missions, VECTIS Recon M2 is deployed in conventional battery operation and therefore remains independent of ground-based infrastructure.
Tether Operation for Long-Endurance Missions
Optionally, the platform can be configured for ground-based power supply. This enables long-duration stationary observation and monitoring profiles.
Ethernet via Tether
In addition to power supply, the tether connection can also provide an Ethernet-based data link – ideal for stable IP communication and continuous video transmission.
Persistent Airborne Sensor Position
In tether operation, VECTIS Recon M2 is suitable as a continuously available airborne observation position for stationary security, reconnaissance and monitoring tasks.
Technical Data
Technical Key Data of VECTIS Recon M2
The following overview summarizes the central technical characteristics of VECTIS Recon M2. Depending on payload, data link, landing module and customer-specific system configuration, individual values and equipment features may vary according to the selected configuration.
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform type | Quadcopter, modular multirotor platform |
| Product basis | VECTIS M2 platform |
| Maximum take-off weight | 8.5 kg |
| Basic system empty weight | approx. 4.1 kg |
| Characteristic dimension | approx. 1,400 mm |
| Wheelbase / motor spacing | approx. 850 mm |
| Propellers | 18″ or 20″, depending on payload and system configuration |
| Maximum speed | up to 41 km/h |
| Maximum climb rate | up to 4 m/s |
| Maximum operating altitude above sea level | up to 4,000 m |
| Wind resistance | up to 14 m/s |
| Protection level | IP54 level |
| Operating temperature | −20 °C to +50 °C |
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power supply | 2× 6S flight battery |
| Power architecture | redundant dual-channel power supply |
| Battery operation | mobile operation for flexibly deployable mission profiles |
| Tether operation | optionally configurable for ground-based power supply |
| Long-endurance missions | stationary mission profiles possible in tether operation |
| Data connection in tether operation | Ethernet-based data link possible |
| Flight time | up to 40 min with Li-ion batteries |
| Operating modes | battery operation, hybrid tether operation or fully cable-bound configuration possible depending on system setup |
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Payload configuration | Modularly integrable EO/IR and specialized payloads |
| Optical / total zoom | Depending on payload configuration, up to 80× total zoom possible |
| Infrared options | EO/IR payloads available, configuration-dependent up to Full HD IR |
| AI functions | Integrated image-based analysis functions depending on payload and system configuration |
| Tracking functions | Target Tracking, Object Tracking, Multiple Target Tracking and Geolocation |
| Detection & classification | Recognition of persons, vehicles and objects; classification by size characteristics possible depending on configuration |
| Advanced specialized detection | Persons floating in water, watercraft and aircraft can be detected depending on configuration |
| Additional specialized functions | License plate recognition as well as fire and smoke detection can be integrated depending on project and configuration |
| Video streaming | RTSP-based video output |
| Multistream | Parallel or multi-channel video transmission possible depending on configuration |
| Payload integration | Customer-specific sensor and analysis configurations can be realized on a project-specific basis |
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Communications architecture | IP-based system and data link architecture |
| Control and telemetry protocol | MAVLink 2 |
| Radio data link | High-performance data link architecture scalable depending on module |
| Operational data link range | Ranges extending well beyond 5 km LOS are possible depending on configuration |
| Extended range options | Depending on radio module, antenna concept and system configuration, ranges beyond 20 km LOS can also be realized |
| Transmission power | Adjustable depending on configuration, approx. 0.01 W to more than 10 W |
| Video data transmission | Digital IP-based video transmission |
| Video streaming | RTSP, multistream configurations possible |
| Encryption | AES-256-based transmission possible |
| Extended security options | Project-specific encryption architectures up to particularly demanding security requirements can be integrated |
| External system integration | Integration into higher-level C2, control and mission systems possible |
| Implemented integration | UMS integration already implemented in practice |
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flight control architecture | High-performance autopilot and sensor architecture for professional mission profiles |
| IMU system | Three inertial measurement units |
| IMU conditioning | Heated operation at a defined operating temperature of approx. 45–50 °C |
| Temperature compensation | Temperature correction curves learned before final parametrization |
| Power supply | Redundant supply via 2× 6S batteries |
| Barometric sensing | Redundant altitude measurement possible depending on system configuration |
| Magnetometer system | Multiple magnetometer sensors available at system level |
| GNSS | GNSS-based navigation, extended configurations possible on a project-specific basis |
| Failsafe logic | Mission- and safety-related flight control functions depending on system parametrization |
| Operator assistance | Simplified, mission-adapted control logics and preconfigurable flight modes possible |
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| System architecture | IP-based platform architecture for payloads, video, data links and external integration |
| Internal network connection | Ethernet-based system structure with onboard IP communication |
| Payload connection | Network-capable integration of camera systems, AI modules and additional mission-specific components |
| Control and telemetry interface | MAVLink 2 |
| Video streaming | RTSP, multistream configurations possible |
| External control systems | Integration into higher-level C2, control and mission systems possible |
| Implemented system integration | UMS integration already implemented in practice |
| Customer-specific interfaces | Additional protocols and integration solutions can be implemented on a project-specific basis |
| Ground Control Station | Software-adjustable user interfaces and mission-specific functional logics possible |
| AI expandability | Customer-specific AI functionalities can be integrated through additional onboard computing modules, Docker containers or provided software solutions |
Transport & Deployment
Compact System Logistics for Mobile and Field-Ready Mission Profiles
VECTIS Recon M2 is designed as a high-performance multirotor platform for professional missions while also supporting practical deployment logistics. With its compact transport configuration, foldable system components and system-adapted packaging concept, the platform can be transported securely and prepared for operation in a structured manner at the deployment site.
Depending on payload, landing module and overall configuration, transport and system case solutions can be tailored on a project-specific basis. This enables VECTIS Recon M2 to be configured for both stationary mission preparation and mobile, field-oriented deployment concepts.
Compact Transport Configuration
Foldable system components and a compact basic geometry facilitate protected transport and structured preparation at the deployment site.
System-Adapted Transport Cases
Transport and system cases can be configured on a project-specific basis depending on payload, landing module and overall system configuration.
Mobile Mission Preparation
VECTIS Recon M2 can be configured for field-oriented deployment concepts and changing operational locations without unnecessarily complicating the overall system logic.
Configuration-Dependent Logistics
The specific transport solution is matched to the UAV configuration, payload, ground components and mission-specific accessories.
Evaluate VECTIS Recon M2 for Your Mission Profile
You are considering VECTIS Recon M2 for a specific reconnaissance, observation or integration scenario? We support the selection of suitable payloads, data link configurations and mission-specific system options – from a standardized reconnaissance setup to a customer-specific integration solution.