Japanese drone maker Prodrone launches an all-domestically-sourced industrial drone to address geopolitical supply chain risks in critical infrastructure.

Key takeaway

• Japanese industrial drone developer Prodrone has unveiled the PD4B-MS, an all-domestically-sourced prototype designed to address geopolitical supply chain risks affecting critical infrastructure.

• The launch aligns with Japan's recent designation of drones as essential to national infrastructure and defense under the Economic Security Promotion Act.

• A production version is expected to follow the current concept model.

3 Key Points

FAQ

What are the key specifications of the PD4B-MS?

The aircraft weighs 7.8 kg without battery, reaches a top speed of 60 km/h, tolerates winds up to 12 m/s, and operates between -20°C and +40°C. Maximum flight time is approximately 25 minutes without payload and 20 minutes with a 3 kg payload.

When will the production version be available?

The PD4B-MS is currently a concept model. Prodrone says a production version will be announced separately, and the company plans to rapidly establish mass production.

Which Japanese companies supplied components for the drone?

Canon Electronics supplies the motors and ESCs, JTEKT provides the flight controller, Furukawa Battery supplies the battery, and TKK Works provides the transmitter and receiver. Prodrone manufactures the airframe, propellers, and GPS antenna in-house.