Successful hybrid power unit operation test for heavy drones by ADJ

Words By: Drone Major

Aero Development Japan Co., Ltd. succeeded in operating tests of a hybrid power unit that combines Halbach generator and gas turbine power, which is being developed for heavy-duty and long-distance drones. A hybrid power system that combines the unit with a propeller motor and ESC (a motor for high voltage propellers of DC300V (AC200V) class for drones) is being developed with the goal of flying a large drone with a total weight of over 150 kg carrying 50 kg of payload for 60 minutes. According to ADJ, the development of power sources for drones using gas turbine engines and Halbach generators will be an advanced initiative not only in Japan but also in the world. This technology is a patented invention of Professor Morishita of Kogakuin University, and the ADJ development partner holds a license for the Halbach generator. ‬‬‬