FLIR Acquires Assets and Technology From Defunct Tethered Drone Startup Aria
Prior to ceasing operations earlier this year, Aria Insights was known for its development of tethered small unmanned aerial systems.
(Image credit: FLIR)
ARLINGTON, Va. — FLIR Systems (Nasdaq: FLIR) recently acquired the intellectual property (IP) and certain operating assets of Aria Insights. Formerly known as CyPhy Works, the company ceased operations in March 2019.
Founded in 2008 by iRobot co-founder Helen Greiner and backed by several top technology investors, Aria gained recognition for its development of tethered small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), including the Persistent Aerial Reconnaissance and Communications (PARC) tethered drone.
Tethered drones connect to a base station or vehicle by microfilament wire, which provides both continuous power and secure communications. For certain applications, a tethered drone offers advantages over a free-flying UAS, enabling sustained operations on longer missions and persistent situational awareness so users can perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) functions, according to FLIR.
“Tethered UAS systems are becoming an increasingly valuable tool for force protection, border security, and critical infrastructure protection,” says David Ray, president of FLIR’s Government and Defense business. “Aria’s innovative technology and IP assets will enable us to enhance current capabilities and advance the range of solutions we can deliver to customers in this growing market segment.”
The Aria assets will be integrated into FLIR’s Unmanned Systems and Integrated Solutions Division, augmenting the company’s fast-growing technology portfolio built from its acquisitions of Prox Dynamics in 2016 and Aeryon Labs and Endeavor Robotics earlier this year.
“We’re pleased to complete the sale of our assets to FLIR Systems,” says Lance Vandenbrook, former CEO of Aria Insights. “We are proud of the technology our team developed through the operations of CyPhy Works and Aria, and we believe FLIR offers the best opportunity to see it make a difference and support critical missions in the years ahead.”
If you enjoyed this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our FREE digital newsletters!
Related Content
Security Is Our Business, Too
For professionals who recommend, buy and install all types of electronic security equipment, a free subscription to Commercial Integrator + Security Sales & Integration is like having a consultant on call. You’ll find an ideal balance of technology and business coverage, with installation tips and techniques for products and updates on how to add to your bottom line.
A FREE subscription to the top resource for security and integration industry will prove to be invaluable.
