First Flight of the Watcher UAS

In 2017, UMP Aerospace & Engineering achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the first flight of the Watcher Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) in Port Orange, Florida. This modular carbon fiber drone, equipped with a single 360-degree camera, introduced a new era of first-person view (FPV) flight. By integrating virtual reality (VR) and head-tracking technology, pilots could experience immersive control in real time. The Watcher’s water- and sand-retardant chassis enabled operations in harsh conditions, setting a new standard for durability and versatility in UAS technology. This achievement highlighted UMP’s innovative approach to aerospace engineering, pushing the boundaries of drone capabilities.

The successful flight demonstrated UMP’s expertise in combining advanced materials and cutting-edge technology. The Watcher UAS has since inspired further innovations in the field, cementing UMP’s position as a leader in aerospace solutions. This milestone marked a significant step forward in our mission to develop robust and adaptable unmanned systems.