Advancing Tactical UAV Innovation from Australia
Skyborne Technologies, headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, is a pioneering aerospace company specializing in the development of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) tailored for modern defense and security applications. Since its inception in 2015, the company has been at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with cutting-edge UAV designs, aiming to enhance the capabilities of tactical warfighters on the modern battlefield.
Company Overview
Skyborne Technologies focuses on creating modular AI targeting systems, weapon platforms, and UAVs designed for precision effects delivery at the tactical edge. Their robotic systems are built with a modular, swappable ecosystem that supports common ground control, weapon systems, and radios, catering to both military and civil security purposes with lethal and non-lethal options.
Flagship Products
Cerberus GL
The Cerberus GL is Skyborne’s flagship UAV, notable for its tri-tilt rotor design, which allows for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities. This man-packable aerial fire support platform is equipped with a 5-shot 40mm grenade launcher, providing organic strike capabilities at the tactical level. The Cerberus GL has undergone successful aerial firing demonstrations under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) approvals in Australia.
Cerberus Modular Integration (MI)
In May 2024, Skyborne unveiled the Cerberus Modular Integration (MI), an evolution of the Cerberus platform. The MI variant features enhanced modularity, allowing for rapid reconfiguration of payloads and systems to suit diverse mission requirements.
Gannet Loitering Effects (LE)
The Gannet LE is a loitering munition developed by Skyborne, designed for extended surveillance and precision strike capabilities. In March 2025, the Gannet LE successfully demonstrated optical terminal guidance, showcasing its ability to accurately engage targets after loitering in the operational area.
Technological Innovations
Skyborne’s UAVs are integrated with advanced AI systems to enhance targeting and operational efficiency. The company has developed a “Slew-to-Cue” feature, a semi-autonomous targeting assistance using aided target recognition (AiTR), which significantly enhances accuracy and reduces operator input. This capability was demonstrated during a project with the US Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL), where the Cerberus platform showcased its precision strike capabilities.
Additionally, Skyborne collaborates with Athena AI to provide target and tracking information onboard the Cerberus UAS edge processor, further enhancing the platform’s autonomous capabilities.
Facilities and Capabilities
Skyborne operates a 1,200 square meter R&D facility in Brisbane, equipped with:
- Mechanical Workshop: Featuring CNC machines, UAV hardware-in-loop, and powertrain test areas for rapid prototyping.
- Electronics Lab: Dedicated to PCB design and assembly, harness fabrication, and hardware-in-loop electronics testing.
- Weapons Armoury: Licensed to store, modify, and repair weapons, with a purpose-built vault for all categories, operating under a Queensland Weapon Act Ministerial Exemption.
These facilities enable Skyborne to maintain an agile development cycle, rapidly iterating and testing new UAV designs and systems.
Funding and Growth
In April 2019, Skyborne successfully completed a Series A capital raise of US$2.45 million. The funds were allocated to support the growth and continued development of the Cerberus GL platform, including the expansion of the team, securing a commercial premise, and procuring hardware for development and testing. This investment marked a significant milestone, enabling Skyborne to accelerate the commercialization of their UAV systems.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Skyborne Technologies is a subsidiary of UAV Corp, a company specializing in manned and unmanned aerial vehicle technology. In partnership with Atlantic Industrial Group Inc. (AIG), Skyborne has initiated a joint venture to enhance manufacturing capabilities at their Wewahitchka, Florida facility. This collaboration aims to produce advanced drone models and establish an in-house design center for airships and drones, utilizing large-scale 3D printing technology.
Furthermore, UAV Corp has secured Letters of Intent (LOIs) valued at $105 million for three DART Series airships, with plans to break ground on the “SKY” Hangar at Skyborne’s Costin Airport in the first quarter of 2025. These airships are designed for applications including disaster relief, cargo transport, communications, and security.
Future Outlook
Skyborne Technologies continues to innovate in the UAV sector, focusing on integrating AI and modular designs to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare and security operations. With a strong foundation in R&D, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to ethical standards, Skyborne is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of tactical UAV deployments.
