ThunderB-VTOL Context

Market context

ThunderB VTOL is BlueBird Aero Systems' vertical-takeoff version of the ThunderB tactical UAV family for long-endurance ISR missions without runway or catapult launch.

• Target environment: Defence field operations, border security and tactical surveillance environments.
• Workflow context: Tactical reconnaissance, ISR, patrol and remote sensing from austere launch sites.
• Deployment model: Defence UAV operated by military, security or government users.
• Commercial maturity: Commercial defence UAV product for long-endurance VTOL ISR missions.
• Adoption constraints: Requires trained operators, airspace approval, payload setup and tactical communications.
• Market position: VTOL extension of BlueBird's ThunderB family for long-endurance ISR from flexible launch sites.
• Adjacent products: Tactical VTOL UAV for defence, border security and field surveillance missions.

Specifications

• Payload Configuration: Modular payload bay with quick-release connectors
• Endurance: 12+ h
• Launch Recovery: vertical takeoff and landing from confined or unprepared areas
• Payload capacity: 4–8 kg
• Payload Eo: photogrammetric, multispectral and radiometric mapping cameras
• Target Use Cases: ISR, mapping, border protection, maritime operations, disaster management and tactical security
• Team Size: two-person operation
• Mtow Kg: 40 kg
• Max Speed Kmh: 120 km/h
• Communication Range Km: ≤150 km