AgEagle Aerial Systems has developed a vision system for providing navigation without satellite signals, writes Nick Flaherty.

The eBee VISION software provides autonomous position updates with map referencing to provide precise navigation, even in GNSS-denied areas where satellite signals are unavailable or unreliable owing to various factors.

“Overcoming GNSS-denied shortfalls marks a significant leap forward in UAV operations, especially for defence personnel, public safety agencies and industrial teams working in high-stakes, GNSS-denied environments,” said AgEagle CEO Bill Irby. “Whether operating in dense urban centres, near critical installations, or in contested zones with active signal interference, eBee VISION can maintain full navigational command of the UAV using only the camera and map-based interface.”

The software supports real-time adjustments to the UAV’s perceived position using visual confirmation and mapping with optical flow stabilisation. When locked onto a point of interest, the camera uses visual cues to keep the target centred, even during long zoom-ins or drone movements. If the camera gimbal becomes blocked, a self-clearing mechanism attempts recovery mid-flight.

The tracking algorithms have been improved to reduce the risk of false “on-ground” detection during flight, ensuring better performance in low-speed or high-wind conditions.

Real-time energy estimates of the mission duration and return-to-home time are adjusted dynamically based on real-time wind and power consumption data. The software also adapts cruise speed based on actual wind intensity, improving endurance without compromising stability. However, when motors approach overheating thresholds, speed is temporarily reduced to prevent shutdown, preserving the integrity of the drone in critical conditions.

Lidar is used to calibrate the landing zone’s altitude, which ensures consistent and accurate touchdown during silent tactical landing, regardless of mid-flight altitude drift.