VTOL AS-H1 Designed to Deliver Critical Aid in Tsunami and Earthquake Zones
This article published in collaboration with JUIDA, the Japan UAS Industrial Development Association.
As communities across the Pacific grapple with the recent tsunami warnings, Japan’s AeroSense recently unveiled a powerful new drone tailored for disaster rescue missions. The AS-H1, their latest unmanned aerial vehicle, uses a VTOL design to quickly deploy in chaotic or hard-to-reach environments where roads and infrastructure may be damaged. Capable of carrying up to 13kg (29 pounds), the AS-H1 can fly as far as 120km (about 75 miles) with a 10kg payload, with a compelling use case focused on delivering medical supplies, food, or rescue gear to areas cut off by disaster.
Without a payload, its range extends to 250km. The drone is powered by ten brushless motors and four high-capacity batteries, providing flight times of up to 1.5 hours when fully loaded. Its cruise speed is 80km/h (50mph), and it can withstand winds up to 20m/s (45mph), allowing it to operate during severe weather that often follows earthquakes or tsunamis.
Safety features of the AS-H1 include advanced radar systems (with a maximum range of 250m), both visual and infrared cameras for detecting obstacles, and redundant flight controls and sensors, helping prevent accidents even if a critical part fails. The body is certified as dust- and water-resistant (IP45), essential for flights in stormy or debris-strewn areas.
AeroSense is currently pursuing official government certification to allow their drone to be used in partnership with manned rescue helicopters. Sales and pilot programs are expected to start soon, and the company is encouraging other organizations to join in developing new uses.
If another quake or tsunami hits, the AS-H1 could rapidly transport vital supplies over long distances, supporting rescue teams and helping reach survivors when time is most critical.
More information on the AS-H1 is available here (in Japanese).
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