VECTIS Relay M2 is a tactical relay UAV for mission profiles where communication range, network coverage and stable data paths from an elevated position are decisive. The system is based on the VECTIS M2 platform architecture and is configured for relay missions with communication payloads, IP-based data paths and suitable operating modes.
Unlike VECTIS Recon M2, VECTIS Relay M2 is not primarily designed for EO/IR reconnaissance. The focus is on airborne data-link extension, tactical relay positions, IP mesh communication and integration into existing communication, command or mission systems.
Key Features
Powerful Relay Platform with Modular System Architecture
As a powerful relay platform with modular system architecture, VECTIS Relay M2 combines a robust multirotor basis with communication payload, data-link integration and project-specific configurability. The focus is not a rigid single system, but a system configuration designed for communication support.
This makes the platform suitable for standardised relay configurations as well as specialised applications where radio modules, antenna concepts, data links, tethered operation and further mission modules need to be combined in a coordinated system setup.
Relay payload
Depending on the mission profile, VECTIS Relay M2 can be configured with a mesh-capable radio data link, IP radio module or project-specific communication payload.
IP-based communication structure
Telemetry, control data, network access and mission-relevant information can be transmitted and processed through scalable IP-based data paths.
Tether and TELEVATOR operation
The relay platform is particularly suitable for tethered operation and TELEVATOR integration when an elevated relay position needs to be maintained for longer durations.
Mission-oriented configuration
VECTIS Relay M2 can be configured as a standardised relay variant or as an individually adapted system configuration depending on the mission profile.
Technical Overview
Key Technical Data at a Glance
The key technical data at a glance classify VECTIS Relay M2 as a tether-supported relay platform based on the VECTIS M2 platform architecture. The specific configuration can vary depending on relay payload, antenna concept, data link, tether configuration, landing module and mission profile.
Primary operating mode
tether / TELEVATOR operation
preferred for stationary or semi-stationary relay tasks with defined relay position and longer operating duration.
Buffer and safety power
onboard buffer battery
as backup, transition buffer and safety reserve for controlled operating or landing scenarios.
Maximum take-off weight
8.5 kg MTOW
based on the VECTIS M2 platform, depending on relay payload, antenna layout and operating mode.
Data-link range
5 km+ LOS
scalable depending on radio module, antenna concept, terrain, relay position and operational area.
Communication payload
Mesh-capable radio data link or IP radio module for data-link extension, network coverage and mission communication.
Protection & operating range
IP54, -20 to +50 °C and up to 14 m/s wind resistance, depending on configuration, tether system and mission profile.
Battery-only operation is optionally possible with VECTIS Relay M2, but is not considered the regular mission operating mode. Typical relay tasks focus on tethered power supply, TELEVATOR integration and a suitable buffer battery.
Redundancy & Operational Safety
Tethered Power Supply, Buffer Battery and Controlled Safety Logic
For VECTIS Relay M2, regular battery flight is not the primary operating concept. The focus is on tethered power supply in tether or TELEVATOR operation. This enables the relay platform to operate from a defined position for longer stationary or semi-stationary communication missions.
The onboard buffer battery is not intended as the primary mission energy source, but as a safety and transition component. It can buffer voltage fluctuations, stabilise system states and support controlled fallback or landing scenarios if the external power supply, tether system or operating context requires it.
For relay missions, stable flight control, defined position holding, system monitoring and a coordinated interaction between power supply, tether loads, payload, antenna concept and operating mode are essential.
Primary supply via tether
In typical relay missions, the primary supply is provided via tether or TELEVATOR and supports longer operating duration from a defined position.
Onboard buffer battery
The buffer battery supports transition operation, voltage stabilisation and controlled safety responses, but is not intended as the primary mission energy source.
System monitoring
System monitoring covers supply, voltage, load states, tether configuration, payload and operating parameters for the specific mission profile.
Controlled fallback scenarios
Controlled fallback scenarios can support transition operation, return or safe landing depending on configuration and operating concept.
Relay Payload | Communication & IP Mesh
Relay Payload for IP Mesh, Data-Link Extension and Mission Communication
The relay payload of VECTIS Relay M2 is designed for communication support, data-link extension and mission-dependent network functions. Depending on the project, a mesh-capable radio data link, a suitable IP radio module or a customer-specific communication payload can be integrated.
The IP-based communication architecture enables telemetry, control data, network access and mission-relevant data paths to be provided through an elevated relay position. This allows VECTIS Relay M2 to operate as an airborne communication node within existing operational, command or mission environments.
IP mesh and radio data link
IP mesh and radio data link support the connection of multiple participants, systems or deployment points through an elevated airborne relay position.
Data-link extension
Data-link extension can bridge distance, terrain masking or unfavourable radio conditions and help stabilise communication paths.
Mission communication
Mission communication can include telemetry, control data, network access and further project-dependent data paths.
Customer-specific integration
Customer-specific integration can adapt radio modules, antenna concepts, data paths and interfaces to the mission profile, infrastructure and system environment.
Platform Configuration | Relay Setup & Payload Integration
VECTIS M2 Platform Basis with Relay-Specific System Configuration
VECTIS Relay M2 uses the same modular VECTIS M2 platform basis as VECTIS Recon M2, but is configured with a relay-specific system configuration. The difference is not a completely different flight platform, but mission profile, payload, antenna concept, operating mode and system integration.
While VECTIS Recon M2 is typically configured for EO/IR reconnaissance, mobile observation and sensor-based situational awareness, VECTIS Relay M2 focuses on the communication role. Accordingly, radio module, IP radio module, antenna layout, data link, tether connectivity and Ground Control integration are aligned with the mission requirements.
A small camera for situational or system monitoring can optionally be considered. However, this option is clearly limited by payload, centre of gravity, energy budget and available integration reserves and is assessed on a project-specific basis.
Common VECTIS M2 basis
The common VECTIS M2 basis enables a consistent platform logic for Recon and Relay configurations with different mission priorities.
Relay payload and antenna layout
Relay payload and antenna layout are aligned with communication range, network coverage, radiation characteristics and system integration.
Optional monitoring camera
An optional monitoring camera can be provided for situational or system control, provided payload reserve, centre of gravity and operating mode allow it.
Project-dependent configuration
Project-dependent configuration covers radio module, data link, antenna concept, landing module, tether connectivity and integration into existing system environments.
Communication | Data Link, Network & C2 Connectivity
Data Link, Network Architecture and System Integration for Relay Missions
For relay missions, the radio link itself is only one part of the overall system chain. Data link, network architecture, antenna concept, ground station and higher-level system connectivity must work together. VECTIS Relay M2 can be deployed as an airborne communication node to extend or temporarily stabilise communication paths from an elevated position.
Depending on the project, UAV systems, ground stations, deployed teams, vehicles, further aerial platforms or external mission systems can be connected within a shared communication structure. Control data, telemetry, network access and mission-relevant data paths can be routed via radio, tether or combined operating modes.
System integration is configured on a project-specific basis. Possible adaptations include radio modules, antenna layouts, IP data paths, Ground Control Station interfaces and integration into C2, control or mission systems.
Data-link structure
The data-link structure can connect radio module, antenna concept, ground station, telemetry and network access according to mission requirements.
Network architecture
The network architecture supports IP-based data paths for control, telemetry, system status and project-specific communication functions.
C2 and mission systems
C2 and mission systems can be connected on a project-specific basis when UAV data, communication status or network functions need to be provided externally.
Combined operating modes
Radio, tether and TELEVATOR can be combined depending on the mission profile to configure power supply, data paths and operating duration appropriately.
Operating Modes | Tether, TELEVATOR & Remote Operation
Tether and TELEVATOR Operation for Stationary Relay Missions
VECTIS Relay M2 is particularly suitable for stationary relay missions and semi-stationary communication tasks. In typical use, the platform is not primarily operated on flight batteries, but through tether or TELEVATOR configurations from a defined relay position.
Tethered operation supports longer operating duration, stable positioning and continuous power supply, while TELEVATOR additionally enables integration on a mobile platform or suitable carrier surface. This allows VECTIS Relay M2 to be deployed as an elevated communication node without limiting the relay function to short battery flight times.
Depending on the project, power supply, control, network access and payload data can be routed via cable, radio or combined operating modes. The onboard buffer battery remains part of the system design as a safety and transition component.
Tethered operation
Tethered operation enables a defined elevated relay position with cable-based power supply and configuration-dependent data paths.
TELEVATOR integration
TELEVATOR integration combines tethered operation, mobile platform, automated take-off and landing processes and vehicle-based system integration.
Combined data paths
Control, network access and payload data can be routed via cable, radio or redundant cable/radio architectures depending on system design.
Remote control architecture
A remote control architecture can spatially separate control station, tether ground unit and UAV through suitable network or fibre-optic links.
Technical Data | Relay Configuration
Technical Data of VECTIS Relay M2
The technical data of VECTIS Relay M2 summarise platform, flight performance, power supply, relay payload, communication architecture, tethered operation and system integration in a structured overview. Depending on radio module, antenna concept, tether system, landing module and customer-specific system configuration, individual values and equipment features may vary by configuration.
Platform and Flight Performance
Platform and flight performance of VECTIS Relay M2 describe the basic multirotor configuration, dimensions, weight limits and free-flight parameters of the relay platform. For typical relay missions, these values are technical operating limits; regular operation is focused on tether or TELEVATOR deployment.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform type | Quadcopter, modular multirotor platform |
| Product basis | VECTIS M2 platform |
| System class | Tactical relay UAV for communication support |
| Maximum take-off weight | up to 8.5 kg, depending on relay payload, antenna layout, landing module and operating mode |
| Base system weight | approx. 4.1 kg, depending on configuration |
| Characteristic dimension | approx. 1,400 mm |
| Wheelbase / motor distance | approx. 850 mm |
| Propellers | 18″ or 20″, depending on payload and system configuration |
| Maximum speed | up to 41 km/h in free flight; not the key parameter for stationary relay missions |
| Maximum climb rate | up to 4 m/s, depending on payload, power supply and operating mode |
| Maximum operating altitude above sea level | up to 4,000 m, depending on configuration and mission |
| Wind resistance | up to 14 m/s, depending on tether configuration, flight altitude, payload and operating environment |
| Protection class | IP54 level, depending on system configuration and mission profile |
| Operating temperature | −20 °C to +50 °C, depending on payload, tether system and operating conditions |
Power Supply and Operating Mode
Power supply and operating mode of VECTIS Relay M2 are designed for tether-supported relay missions. Battery operation is possible, but it is not the focus of typical relay missions.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Primary operating mode | Tether or TELEVATOR operation for stationary and semi-stationary relay tasks |
| Primary power supply | Tether / ground power supply in regular operation, depending on tether system and operating concept |
| Buffer power | Onboard buffer battery as safety, transition and fallback component |
| Optional battery configuration | 2× 6S flight battery possible, depending on mission and configuration |
| Optional operating mode | Short-duration battery operation possible, but not intended as the regular relay mission operating mode |
| Tether height | configuration-dependent; up to approx. 100 m cable length possible with a suitable tether system |
| TELEVATOR integration | Mobile or remote platform integration with tethered operation, take-off / landing concept and system connectivity possible |
| Safety logic | Controlled transition, fallback or landing scenarios depending on system configuration and operating concept |
Relay Payload and Communication
Relay payload and communication describe the radio, data-link and network functions of VECTIS Relay M2. The configuration depends on range requirements, antenna concept, mission profile and integration environment.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Typical mission role | Airborne communication node for data-link extension, network coverage and mission communication |
| Communication payload | Mesh-capable radio data link, IP radio module or customer-specific integrated relay payload |
| Communication architecture | IP-based system and data-link architecture |
| Data-link range | typically 5 km+ LOS, depending on radio module, antenna concept, relay position, terrain and operational area |
| Network capability | MANET / mesh-capable communication structure depending on radio module and system configuration |
| Control and telemetry data | MAVLink 2-based communication for control, telemetry and system data possible |
| Network access | IP-based data paths for network access, system status and mission-dependent communication functions |
| Encryption | Encrypted data transmission, AES-256-based solutions possible depending on configuration |
| Antenna concept | Project-specific depending on frequency range, radiation characteristics, payload, centre of gravity and operating environment |
System Integration and Optional Components
System integration and optional components describe the integration of VECTIS Relay M2 into Ground Control, tether, TELEVATOR and mission system environments. Additional components are assessed on a project-specific basis.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Ground Control Station | Integration into professional GCS environments, customer-specific operator interfaces possible |
| C2 / mission system integration | Integration into higher-level control, command and mission systems possible on a project-specific basis |
| Tether ground unit | Project-specific integration of power supply, data paths, network access and system monitoring |
| Remote operation | Remote control architecture via suitable network or fibre-optic links possible |
| Optional monitoring camera | Possible on a project-specific basis, e.g. for situational or system monitoring; depending on payload reserve, centre of gravity and operating mode |
| Payload integration | Customer-specific communication, antenna and system configurations can be implemented on a project basis |
| Open interfaces | Project-specific integration of external systems, data receivers and customer-specific integration architectures possible |
Transport & Deployment
System Logistics for Mobile, Stationary and Remote Relay Mission Profiles
The system logistics of VECTIS Relay M2 must support mobile, stationary and remote relay mission profiles. In addition to the flight platform, communication payload, antennas, buffer battery and ground station, the overall system may also include tether ground unit, cable system, network components, power supply and TELEVATOR connectivity depending on configuration.
For mobile relay tasks, the system can be transported in suitable system cases and deployed close to the mission area. For stationary or remote operating modes, setup location, cable routing, tether position, power supply, remote operation and the spatial separation of control station, tether ground unit and UAV become particularly important.
Vectorbirds can adapt the transport and deployment solution to relay configuration, antenna layout, tether system, vehicle, team structure and operating conditions. The objective is system logistics that not only protect the equipment during transport, but also support rapid setup and controlled operation in the field.
System transport solution
Flight platform, relay payload, antennas, buffer battery, ground station, data-link components and accessories can be combined in a structured system transport solution.
Tether and ground unit
Tether cable, tether ground unit, power supply, network components and handover points are prepared according to the planned relay operating mode.
TELEVATOR integration
With TELEVATOR integration, platform, tethered operation, take-off / landing concept, vehicle or carrier integration and system operation are considered together.
Remote operation
For remote operation, control station, tether ground unit and UAV can be spatially separated through suitable network or fibre-optic links.
Project Request | VECTIS Relay M2
Configure VECTIS Relay M2 for your mission profile
Are you planning a relay mission, airborne data-link extension, IP-based network coverage or a stationary communication solution with tether or TELEVATOR operation?
As part of the project request, Vectorbirds assesses which relay configuration is technically suitable for your mission profile. This includes communication payload, radio module, antenna concept, data link, tether system, buffer battery, landing module, Ground Control Station and integration into existing communication, command or mission systems.
This makes it possible to determine whether VECTIS Relay M2 is suitable as a tactical communication node, tether-supported relay platform or customer-specific integrated system solution for your requirements.