Drones require heavy batteries or lots of electrical components, which leaves little room for the actual payload. A Purdue University team came up with a method to use fluid power technology for autonomous vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) vehicles.

Dr. Keisuke Umezawa of the Air Systems Research Center in the Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMoD) recently joined the Air Force Research Laboratory on an engineers and scientists exchange program (ESEP). The JMoD chose Umezawa for the ESEP based on his experience as a stress analysist of polymer matrix composite materials. Also, Umezawa has been heavily involved in the development of the next generation Japanese fighter aircraft, including the development of the test program for prototype PMC structures.

Development of a virtual reality-like projection system to study insect vision could eventually provide the U.S. Air Force with a new type of navigation system.

In an effort to enhance soldier lethality, Army researchers are developing biorecognition receptors capable of consistent performance in multi-domain environments with the ability to collect real-time assessments of soldier health and performance.

Most drones are not able to withstand wind because of their fixed-arm design. But a new drone design works in windy conditions, is more energy-efficient, and can handle a larger payload. It was inspired by the wings and flight patterns of insects and incorporates automatic folding arms that can make in-flight adjustments.

A new study of the environmental sustainability impacts of flying cars (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, or VTOLs) finds that they wouldn’t be suitable for a short commute but could be valuable in congested cities or in places where there are geographical constraints.