Hampton, Virginia-based Advanced Aircraft Co. (AAC), a developer of long-endurance hybrid-electric unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) designed for commercial, defense and public safety applications, has launched its hybrid advanced multirotor unmanned aircraft system (HAMR).

AAC’s designs incorporate a multi-rotor configuration with a hybrid gas-electric propulsion system for extended endurance and multiple, simultaneous payload capabilities. The company was founded in 2017 by Bill Fredericks, a former NASA aerospace engineer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

“After four years of development, testing, and validation, we are proud to announce our entry into the unmanned systems market with HAMR,” said Fredericks, also AAC’s CEO. “Our high-performance gas-electric hybrid propulsion system and aerodynamic airframe designs enable long-endurance operations. This provides a significant competitive advantage to our customers by doubling the productivity of their pilots.”

The company also announced its latest round of funding, led by Shenandoah Valley Angel Investors (SVAI). The $850,000 funding round, with investment from CIT Gap Funds, brings the company’s total funding to more than $2 million. The oversubscribed round also saw the participation of several new strategic investors. The investment will enable AAC to scale up manufacturing, accelerate research and development, and expand its team as it prepares to expand into the global market.

According to SVAI Founder George Pace, their initial investment in AAC and subsequent support during the second seed round is based on three core beliefs. “First, AAC has developed a hybrid drone solution that brings great value to the commercial drone sector by significantly increasing flight time,” said Pace. “Second, company Founder Bill Fredericks, a former NASA aerospace engineer and Marine officer who served in Afghanistan, brings deep knowledge, leadership, and energy, which are critical for success.”

The HAMR UAS has been optimized for surveying & mapping, critical infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, public safety and defense applications, including long-endurance ISR, and search and rescue missions.

The HAMR uses a series hybrid gas-electric propulsion system that incorporates an electronic fuel injected and computer-controlled 35cc single-piston engine driving an integrated generator producing up to 2,000W to power six independent brushless DC electric motors and a backup battery. This configuration allows for up to 3.5 hours of flight time, 6x longer than a conventional battery-powered multirotor aircraft. Multiple redundant systems, remote engine starting, and onboard batteries allow the aircraft to operate with a high margin of safety. In the event of an engine failure or an electric motor failure, the craft can land safely.

Line replaceable units (LRUs) ensure rapid in-field servicing with minimum downtime, while a continuous development program lengthens aircraft service life and increases its capabilities as new technologies are integrated.

The HAMR’s dual cargo bays allow for multiple payload options or increased fuel capacity. An open modular architecture allows for rapid payload reconfiguration depending on application and mission. Operators can choose from a range of commercially available optical or infrared cameras and Lidar systems. HAMR can carry standard Group 2 payloads for defense applications, including electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR) laser, and communications systems.

The portable HAMR can be launched within minutes without the need for ground support infrastructure. The system can be disassembled and stored in a single case and is easily transported in a conventional passenger or small military vehicle.

The HAMR has been operational with select customers during the last year and AAC is now accepting additional production orders.