Latest news with #autonomousdrones
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Asylon Robotics Raises $24 Million Series B Funding Led by Insight Partners to Accelerate the Future of Automated Security
PHILADELPHIA, July 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Asylon, Inc., a leading provider of robotic perimeter security technology, today announced the close of its $24M Series B funding round, led by global software investor Insight Partners, with strategic participation from Veteran Ventures Capital, Allegion Ventures, and the GO PA Fund. This new capital will power Asylon's next phase of growth—accelerating product innovation, scaling deployments, and expanding its position as the go-to provider of robotic security services across commercial and government sectors. Founded to reimagine how security is delivered, Asylon's US-made, integrated solutions—featuring autonomous drones, ground robotics, and AI-driven command software—are deployed across corporate campuses, critical infrastructure, logistics hubs, and defense installations. Asylon has completed over 250,000 robotic security missions, protecting people, property, and national assets. "Security is being redefined, and Asylon is proud to be a US-made provider at the forefront leading the shift for our enterprise and defense customers," said Damon Henry, CEO and Co-Founder of Asylon. "This funding empowers us to scale our operations and deliver on the promise of automated, tech-enabled security services that are more cost effective and resilient than anything traditional systems can offer today. Asylon is creating a future where intelligent security is the norm—not the exception. Insight Partners shares our vision, and we're excited to build that future together." "We believe Asylon is the next dimension of physical security," said Mike Hayes, Managing Director at Insight Partners. "Its full-stack, tech-enabled approach that integrates robotics, AI, and mission execution positions Asylon to lead in a market demanding automation and reliability. We're thrilled to partner with Damon and team as they help pioneer this industry transformation." The Series B funding will be used to expand Asylon's engineering, operations, and go-to-market teams, accelerate product development across its robotic platforms, and deepen partnerships across defense, logistics, and critical infrastructure. As the demand for resilient, automated security systems continues to grow, Asylon is positioned to meet it with greater speed, scalability, and technical depth. For more information on Asylon's robotic security solutions, visit: About Asylon Robotics Asylon is a premier developer of US built robotic security systems, offering AI-powered drones and security robots for perimeter security and rapid response. With a mission to modernize the world's security infrastructure, Asylon operates across the commercial and government sectors. About Insight Partners Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of December 31, 2024, the firm has over $90B in regulatory assets under management. Insight Partners has invested in more than 800 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Headquartered in New York City, Insight has offices in London, Tel Aviv, and the Bay Area. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with tailored, hands-on software expertise along their growth journey, from their first investment to IPO. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit or follow us on X @insightpartners. View source version on Contacts Media Contact: press@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Khaleej Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Early detection, instant images: How UAE-made drones catch intruders, enhance security
In a remote desert facility in Central Asia, two intruders attempting to breach a security perimeter in the dead of night were intercepted before they could reach the main compound. Within 30 seconds of detecting unauthorised movement, an autonomous drone launched from a docking station, navigated with centimetre-level accuracy, and captured thermal images of the suspects. They fled before causing damage — and the breach was patched the same day. According to Microavia, the UAE-based drone manufacturer behind the incident response, autonomous aerial systems are not just replacing static sensors and patrols, they're reshaping the economics and strategy of infrastructure security across the region. 'We're talking about 98 per cent uptime, thermal imaging, high-resolution EO zoom, and AI target classification all working together — without a pilot, without delay,' said Enrique Plaza Baez, CEO of Microavia. 'The system not only prevented a potential loss, but delivered a full return on investment within the first year.' Drones built for the desert From perimeter surveillance to infrastructure inspection and emergency response, AI-enabled drones are already flying missions across borders, pipelines, desalination plants and power grids throughout the GCC. 'Our platform was engineered from the ground up to operate in the Gulf,' Plaza said. 'We've tested it in temperatures from -35°C to 60°C. The docking stations are dustproof, climate-controlled, and corrosion-resistant — because that's what this region demands.' Microavia's autonomous drones can remain airborne 98 per cent of the time thanks to automated battery replacement, real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance features. Their stability in winds up to 15m per second makes them ideal for challenging coastal and desert operations. 'We've eliminated standby costs, downtime, and the need for full flight crews,' he added. 'What we're offering isn't just automation — it's intelligent automation that scales, learns, and outperforms.' Plaza believes many organisations still evaluate drone technology using outdated models, focusing on capital expenses or staff reduction. 'Traditional ROI metrics were designed for tools managed by humans,' he said. 'But autonomous drones are now part of permanent infrastructure — they collect data, analyse it, and support decision-making.' He argues that the impact should instead be measured in terms of incident preparedness, operational insight, and response capability. 'These drones are enabling a level of real-time control and urban intelligence that simply didn't exist before.' In one case, Microavia drones patrolling mountainous terrain every 15 km detected suspicious thermal activity 18 hours ahead of a scheduled human patrol. 'The alert helped intercept an unauthorised crossing and revealed a previously unmonitored route. That kind of early detection is game-changing.' UAE's supportive regulation While the US drone market is shaped by the FAA and Europe's ecosystem remains fragmented, the UAE is leading the region in regulation that supports scalable drone operations, Plaza said. 'Here, we have fast-track registration, centralised governance, and legal clarity — which makes innovation possible,' he explained. 'In many ways, it's more conducive to advanced drone deployment than the West.' Microavia's systems are already integrated with local airspace management platforms and tested within the UAE's regulatory frameworks. The company is also eyeing alignment with smart city initiatives — from Dubai's real-time 3D mapping to Abu Dhabi's unified digital services. Exporting Made-in-UAE innovation The local drone market in the UAE is valued at $122 million and growing rapidly. According to Plaza, the shift from consumer use to national infrastructure is already underway — with UAE firms now exporting technologies instead of simply adopting them. 'At international exhibitions, UAE companies are securing export contracts for AI-enabled platforms — and Microavia is part of that movement,' he said. 'Everything we build is developed and assembled in the Emirates. That gives our partners confidence, and it gives the UAE a foothold in the global defence and security supply chain.' While defence, border security and oil and gas remain the most aggressive adopters of autonomous drone tech, other sectors such as agriculture, civil protection, and smart logistics are beginning to catch up. Still, Plaza notes that adoption remains fragmented in areas like insurance, construction and utilities. 'There's huge potential in nature conservation, tunnel monitoring, even mining. But to unlock that, we need both digital infrastructure and regulatory clarity.' The next frontier Looking ahead, Microavia is investing in drone swarms for disaster relief, environmental monitoring in fragile ecosystems, and smart agriculture for arid regions. 'In five to ten years, AI drones will be embedded in every smart city function,' Plaza predicted. 'They'll monitor traffic, inspect infrastructure, and respond to emergencies — not reactively, but proactively.' As the UAE continues its ascent as a regional tech leader, firms like Microavia are quietly building the hardware, software and sovereign strategy to match. 'We're not just flying drones,' Plaza said. 'We're building autonomy into the infrastructure of tomorrow — right here in the UAE.'
Zawya
25-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
LODD, 7X conduct first parcel delivery trial by drone in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI - The aviation technology firm LODD, and 7X, the investment holding group in trade, transport and logistics, overseeing the logistics and express delivery provider EMX, have launched the first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries in Abu Dhabi, marking a qualitative leap in the logistics sector across the emirate. The trial falls under the strategy of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) that, with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)'s support, aims to develop and adopt smart and integrated mobility solutions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Conducted with oversight from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, the initiative is part of a wider strategy to enable smart mobility solutions through ADIO's Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The initiative supports Abu Dhabi's efforts to localise production, develop future-ready infrastructure, and reinforce its position as a global hub for innovation and advanced industries. Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, said, 'ADIO is proud to champion the development and rollout of cutting-edge logistics technologies that strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global innovation hub. This pilot is a powerful example of the kind of local partnerships and forward-thinking strategies that drive long-term economic and infrastructure value for the Emirate.' The first test flight, conducted in Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of autonomous aerial parcel delivery. A drone transported a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, stated, 'Ensuring the safety and security of our airspace remains a top priority for the Integrated Transport Centre. We continue to advance the regulatory frameworks necessary to support the safe and effective integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi's wider transport ecosystem. He added that this pilot trial reflects the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors, and represents a concrete step toward the future of smart aerial mobility in the emirate. "We are committed to providing a secure and adaptive regulatory environment that keeps pace with innovation and empowers the adoption of emerging technologies. This enhances Abu Dhabi's global competitiveness and reinforces its position as a leading hub for sustainable mobility and future-focused technologies,' Al Hameli continued. Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, said, 'Autonomous drones introduce a transformative layer to urban delivery networks. With one operator able to manage multiple deliveries simultaneously, the system brings a new level of scalability and responsiveness to the logistics chain.' Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, noted, 'This milestone reflects our continued commitment to pioneering next-generation logistics solutions that align with the UAE's vision for smart mobility. By integrating autonomous aerial technology into EMX's national logistics ecosystem, we are enhancing operational reach and speed, and building a more adaptive, future-ready network capable of meeting the evolving demands of commerce and connectivity.' The pilot marks the first phase in a broader strategy to deploy drone-based logistics services across Abu Dhabi. With progressive regulation and infrastructure readiness, the emirate is emerging as a leader in autonomous air mobility within the region.
Zawya
25-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
LODD and 7X conduct first parcel delivery trial by drone in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: With the support of Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the aviation technology firm LODD, and 7X, the investment holding group in trade, transport and logistics, overseeing the logistics and express delivery provider EMX, have launched the first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries in Abu Dhabi, marking a qualitative leap in the logistics sector across the emirate. The trial falls under the strategy of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) that, with ADIO's support, aims to develop and adopt smart and integrated mobility solutions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Conducted with oversight from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, the initiative is part of a wider strategy to enable smart mobility solutions through ADIO's Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The initiative supports Abu Dhabi's efforts to localise production, develop future-ready infrastructure, and reinforce its position as a global hub for innovation and advanced industries. Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, said: 'ADIO is proud to champion the development and rollout of cutting-edge logistics technologies that strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global innovation hub. This pilot is a powerful example of the kind of local partnerships and forward-thinking strategies that drive long-term economic and infrastructure value for the Emirate.' The first test flight, conducted in Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of autonomous aerial parcel delivery. A drone transported a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, said: 'Ensuring the safety and security of our airspace remains a top priority for the Integrated Transport Centre. We continue to advance the regulatory frameworks necessary to support the safe and effective integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi's wider transport ecosystem. 'This pilot trial reflects the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors, and represents a concrete step toward the future of smart aerial mobility in the emirate. We are committed to providing a secure and adaptive regulatory environment that keeps pace with innovation and empowers the adoption of emerging technologies. This enhances Abu Dhabi's global competitiveness and reinforces its position as a leading hub for sustainable mobility and future-focused technologies.' Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, said: 'Autonomous drones introduce a transformative layer to urban delivery networks. With one operator able to manage multiple deliveries simultaneously, the system brings a new level of scalability and responsiveness to the logistics chain. We're proud to work with 7X, ADIO, the GCAA, and the Integrated Transport Centre to advance this technology in the UAE.' Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, said: 'This milestone reflects our continued commitment to pioneering next-generation logistics solutions that align with the UAE's vision for smart mobility. By integrating autonomous aerial technology into EMX's national logistics ecosystem, we are enhancing operational reach and speed, and building a more adaptive, future-ready network capable of meeting the evolving demands of commerce and connectivity.' LODD and 7X continue to collaborate with regulators and industry partners to refine procedures, ensure regulatory compliance, and gather operational insights to support wider rollout, highlighting the continued collaboration between private partners and regulators to refine systems, ensure compliance, and support future expansion. The pilot marks the first phase in a broader strategy to deploy drone-based logistics services across Abu Dhabi. With progressive regulation and infrastructure readiness, the emirate is emerging as a leader in autonomous air mobility within the region. About the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO): The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) is the government vehicle responsible for accelerating Abu Dhabi's growth and enabling the emirate's economic transformation. Through comprehensive support services, ADIO enables both local and foreign investors to shape industries of the future set to transform liveability, technology, resources, and value-added services. Initiatives focused on regional tourism and retail development and public-private partnerships ensure that community well-being is at the centre of Abu Dhabi's economic transformation. With a robust network of investors, strong collaboration with key stakeholders, and a global presence, ADIO is committed to empowering those who invest with Abu Dhabi to make a lasting global impact. For more information, visit: About Integrated Transport Centre: The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), affiliated with the Department of Municipalities and Transport, is the legislative, regulatory, and supervisory authority responsible for managing and developing the transport sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It formulates policies and frameworks aimed at establishing a smart, safe, and integrated mobility system that supports the Emirate's aspiration to be among the most advanced cities in the world. ITC oversees all land, maritime, and aviation transport activities across the Emirate, ensuring the integration and advancement of the mobility system in line with urban expansion and population growth. It also strives to harness the latest technologies, innovation, and sustainability tools to meet future mobility demands, enhance quality of life, and redefine urban living standards by embedding advanced solutions and promoting sustainable mobility practices. About LODD LODD is a UAE-based aviation technology firm focused on developing hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aircraft systems for autonomous cargo transport. Alongside aircraft development, LODD is building the infrastructure and partnerships needed to bring drone logistics into real-world operation across the UAE. About 7X 7X, a Public Joint Stock Company under the Emirates Investment Authority. 7X operates as a trade, transport, and logistics investment and holding group, headquartered in Dubai, overseeing and managing its diverse portfolio, including its logistics arm EMX, its fintech arm FINTX, its digital transformation business EDC, and postal services through Emirates Post. 7X supports the UAE's socio-economic development by integrating national goals across logistics, eCommerce, financial inclusion, and digitalization. It is the driving force enabling a world in motion from the 7 emirates to the 7 continents, and across the 7 seas. About EMX EMX, the logistics arm of 7X, delivers bespoke logistics services and last-mile delivery solutions to meet the needs of government, banking, e-commerce, and corporate entities. EMX offers reliable domestic door-to-door delivery services in the UAE while fostering global business connections through its international network. Focused on tailored, efficient, and convenient solutions that empower businesses and bridge distances, EMX ensures a world within reach.
South China Morning Post
20-06-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
F-47's loyal wingmen drones ‘huge deal' for US sixth-gen air dominance programme
Full-scale models of the autonomous drones intended to serve alongside the US Air Force's sixth-generation fighter jets were on display at the Paris Air Show this week, with an official from one maker confirming their development was focused on the Indo-Pacific. Advertisement Jackson Lingane, communications manager at Anduril Industries – a major supplier of unmanned platforms to the US Air Force – said that once commissioned, its YFQ-44 known as Fury, was likely to be deployed in flashpoints that included the Taiwan Strait. '[The US Air Force] has been very transparent, it is focused on Indo-Pacific fights,' he said. 'One of the reasons Anduril Industries is here at the Paris Air Show is we think the science and shape applied in Fury also has a lot of application for European allies.' The YFQ-44 is included in the Increment 1 package of weapons for the F-47 sixth-generation fighter jet and its collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) drones that are in development as part of the US Air Force's next-generation air dominance (NGAD) programme. At the General Atomics booth, another full-scale model was on display – of its YFQ-42A drone that is also part of the NGAD's Increment 1 programme. Advertisement
