The most legit and arch-rival of DJI drones, Autelrobotics has come up with the new line of drones called Dragonfish. There has been so much talk about these drones over the course of last few months so in this post we are going to review them. They are designed to be smart, efficient, and reliable in many ways as compared to Autel’s previous models. What sets Autel’s Dragonfish drones apart form its previous Autel drone models? Well, these new drones have a unique design that allows them to tilt their wings and fly like an aeroplane or hover like a helicopter. They are modular, which means you can attach different payloads to them depending on the task you want to accomplish. The Dragonfish drones have advanced AI capabilities that can track objects and they can fly for a long time without needing to recharge.
#1 Dragonfish Drone Types Based On Payload
There are three drones in this line of Autel drones and each one has a different payload endurance:
i) Dragonfish Lite has a payload endurance of 81 minutes
ii) Dragonfish Standard commands 126 minutes payload endurance
iii) Dragonfish Pro has a payload endurance of 158 minutes
#2 Some top-tier specs of Dragonfish drones
i) Longest flight time with load = 158 minutes
ii) Quick assembly = 3 minutes
iii)Highest optical zoom = 4K 50x
iv) Max speed = 108km/h
v) Transmission range = 18.6 miles
vi) System boot and self check = 5s
| Feats | Dragonfish Lite | Dragonfish Standard | Dragonfish Pro |
| Dimensions | 38*63*13.8 inches | 50.8*90.6*18.1 inches | 65*120*18.1 inches |
| Max Flight Time | 81 mins | 126 mins | 158 mins |
| Weight(including two batteries, without gimbal) | 4.5 kg | 7.5 kg | 14.5 kg |
| Supported Payloads | Z2, T3, T3H, M1 | Z2, T3, T3H, L20T, M1 | Z2, T3, T3H, L20T, M1, L50T |
| Operating Frequency | Video Transmission
902-928 MHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 2.4000-2.4835 GHz; 5.150-5.250 GHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 5.725-5.850 GHz Data Transmission 5.729-5.771 GHz |
Video Transmission
902-928 MHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 2.4000-2.4835 GHz; 5.150-5.250 GHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 5.725-5.850 GHz Data Transmission 5.729-5.771 GHz |
Video Transmission
902-928 MHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 2.4000-2.4835 GHz; 5.150-5.250 GHz (Only for FCC/ISED); 5.725-5.850 GHz Data Transmission 5.729-5.771 GHz |
| EIRP (Equivalent radiated power) | 900MHz
FCC/ISED：< 30 dBm； 2.4 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 30 dBm CE：< 20 dBm； 5.2 GHz FCC/ISED：< 25 dBm 5.8 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 26 dBm CE: < 14 dBm |
900MHz
FCC/ISED：< 30 dBm； 2.4 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 30 dBm CE：< 20 dBm； 5.2 GHz FCC/ISED：< 25 dBm 5.8 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 26 dBm CE: < 14 dBm |
900MHz
FCC/ISED：< 30 dBm； 2.4 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 30 dBm CE：< 20 dBm； 5.2 GHz FCC/ISED：< 25 dBm 5.8 GHz FCC/ISED/RCM：< 26 dBm CE: < 14 dBm |
| Hovering Accuracy (P-mode with GPS) | Vertical:
±0.1 m(Vision System enabled) ±0.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) Horizontal: ±0.3 m(Vision System enabled) ±1.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) |
Vertical:
±0.1 m(Vision System enabled) ±0.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) Horizontal: ±0.3 m(Vision System enabled) ±1.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) |
Vertical:
±0.1 m(Vision System enabled) ±0.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) Horizontal: ±0.3 m(Vision System enabled) ±1.5 m(GPS enabled) ±0.1 m(RTK enabled) |
| RTK Positioning Accuracy | When RTK enabled and fixed：
Multi-rotor： 1 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 1.5 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical） Fixed Wing： 3 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 3 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical） |
When RTK enabled and fixed：
Multi-rotor： 1 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 1.5 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical）  Fixed Wing： 3 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 3 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical） |
When RTK enabled and fixed：
Multi-rotor： 1 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 1.5 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical） Fixed Wing： 3 cm+1 ppm（Horizontal） 3 cm + 1 ppm（Vertical） |
| Max Ascent Speed | Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
| Max Ascent Speed | Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
Vertical Flight Mode：4 m/s
Fixed Wing Mode：5 m/s |
| Max Flight Speed | 30 m/s | 30 m/s | 30 m/s |
| Wind Resistance | Fixed Wing Mode：15 m/s
Vertical Flight Mode：12 m/s |
Fixed Wing Mode：15 m/s
Vertical Flight Mode：12 m/s |
Fixed Wing Mode：15 m/s
Vertical Flight Mode：12 m/s |
| Max Payload | 1.0 kg | 1.5 kg | 2.5 kg |
| Single Battery Power | 174 Wh | 277.2 Wh | 822.36 Wh |
| Battery Charging Time | 120 min | 120 min | 120 min |
#3 Interchangeable Payload System
Seamlessly handle diverse operations with a range of payload options that can be effortlessly interchanged to meet specific mission requirements. Dragonfish payloads offer the flexibility of interchangeability between different aircraft classes, optimizing overall value and elevating the system’s mission capabilities.
#4 RTK Accuracy
Dragonfish drones boast two RTK (Real-Time Kinetic) modules, ensuring precise location data at the centimeter level when coupled with a GNSS base station. The redundancy of dual units enhances data backup, instilling extra confidence in operations, this setup enhances image metadata quality, contributing to heightened flight precision and safety.
With their modular design, Autel’s Dragonfish drones can adapt to various missions by simply swapping out different payloads. For example, they can be fitted with LiDAR sensors for mapping and 3D modeling, or with chemical sensors for detecting hazardous substances in the air.
#5 AI Safety System
These drones are built to be tough and can withstand complex environments. They have AI safety features like backup systems and sensors to prevent accidents. They also have features like GPS and communication systems to ensure a safe flight. The Dragonfish drones come in different models with varying flight times and payload capacities.
#6 Application of Autel Dragonfish Drones
The dragonfish drones have many practical applications, such as public safety, powerline inspection, and agriculture monitoring. They can be controlled using a ground control station with a bright touchscreen display. This line of Dragonfish drones by Autel are powerful and versatile tools that can be used in various industries for different purposes. They are easy to assemble and use, and they prioritize safety and efficiency.
#7 Some Powerful Features of Autel’s Line of Dragonfish Drones
i) Imaging Technology – They have imaging technology, such as high-resolution cameras
ii) Thermal Capability – They also have thermal sensors enabling them to capture detailed images and detect heat signatures.
iii) Application – Highly applicable for search and rescue operations, surveillance, and environmental monitoring.
iv)Automatic Flight Control – These drones have a robust flight control system that ensures stability and precision during flight, even in challenging weather conditions.
v) Obstacle Avoidance – Dragonfish drones possess intelligent obstacle avoidance systems that use a combination of sensors and algorithms to navigate around obstacles and maintain a safe distance from them.
vi) Efficient Power Management – Dragonfish drones have a long endurance due to their efficient power management systems and lightweight construction. This allows them to complete extended missions without frequent battery changes or recharging.
vii) Cutting Edge Technology – The Dragonfish drones offer cutting-edge technology, versatility, and reliability for a wide range of industries.
viii) Automated Task – They have advanced features and capabilities that make them invaluable tools for tasks that require aerial surveillance, data collection, or monitoring in various environments.
ix) Autonomy – Dragonfish drones have advanced autonomous capabilities that enable them to perform complex missions with minimal human intervention.
x) Programmablity – These Autel drones can be programmed to follow pre-defined flight paths, perform specific tasks, and even collaborate with other drones, forming a coordinated swarm for increased efficiency and coverage.
xi) Communication System – These drones are equipped with real-time communication systems, allowing them to transmit data and video feeds back to a central command center or operator in real-time. This helps to provide up-to-date information for decision-making or immediate action.
#8 Application of Autel Adragonfish Drones
Dragonfish drones are top of the line drones by Autelrobotics which is a top-tier competitor to DJI. They are designed with the utmost focus on safety and reliability. They are equipped with redundant systems, fail-safe mechanisms, and anti-jamming technology to ensure stable and uninterrupted operation. They also have built-in emergency protocols, such as automatic return-to-home functions or landing capabilities, which can be activated in case of emergencies or low battery situations.
Dragonfish drones are designed with user-friendly interfaces and intuitive control systems, making them accessible to both experienced and novice users. This ease of use fosters wider adoption across various industries and ensures efficient utilization of the drone’s capabilities.
In terms of usability, Dragonfish drones are designed with user-friendly interfaces and intuitive controls, making them accessible to a wide range of operators. They can be easily set up, launched, and operated through various methods, including remote control, computer-based control systems, or even mobile applications.
To support the deployment and maintenance of the Dragonfish drones, comprehensive training and technical support are provided by the manufacturer. This helps operators understand the drone’s capabilities, flight characteristics, and maintenance procedures, ensuring safe and effective use.
Dragonfish drones offer advanced technology, autonomous capabilities, data transmission, and safety features, making them valuable assets in a range of industries. They provide a reliable, versatile, and user-friendly solution for aerial surveillance, data collection, and monitoring applications.
We can use them to perform a tremendous number of jobs as the Dragonfish drones are equipped with intelligent flight control systems. These systems include advanced navigation algorithms, obstacle avoidance technology, and precise positioning systems, ensuring smooth and accurate flight maneuvers.
We can also operate them remotely, either manually or through autonomous flight missions programmed using waypoint navigation. This allows for efficient and controlled data collection in remote or inaccessible areas.
The drones are also designed with a rugged and weather-resistant construction, enabling them to withstand harsh environmental conditions. This makes them suitable for operations in challenging terrains or adverse weather situations.
Dragonfish drones often come with integrated real-time communication systems, enabling operators to receive live video feeds or telemetry data from the drone. This feature enables real-time situational awareness and facilitates immediate decision-making during critical missions.
We all know that DJI has been ruling the drone domain for quite some time but at the same time we feel Autel’s this line of drones is quite a competition to many of DJI’s top-tier drones. As the dragonfish drones offer a comprehensive package of features, combining advanced imaging technology, intelligent flight control, durability, and user-friendly interfaces. As a result, they prove to be versatile tools for a wide range of applications, including aerial photography, mapping, monitoring, and emergency response operations.
