Wireless power beaming may keep military drones flying longer with fewer battery swaps

Small drones often face one unavoidable limitation of battery power. That challenge now sits at the center of a new Air Force-backed research effort that could allow unmanned aircraft to remain deployed for much longer without returning for a recharge. Reach Power and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s NIMBUS Lab have secured a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I contract through AFWERX to study wireless power for perched drones. The project will examine whether remotely delivered energy can keep drones operating as persistent communications and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) nodes during military missions. If successful, the approach could reduce battery swaps, extend operational endurance, and simplify logistics for deployed forces. Keeping drones on station Unlike conventional drones that must frequently land to recharge or replace batteries, perched drones are designed to remain fixed in one location while carrying out observation or communications tasks. Researchers now want to determine whether wireless power transmission can keep those systems active for significantly longer periods. The project combines Reach Power’s wireless power-beaming technology with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s expertise in autonomous systems, robotics, and communications. Engineers will evaluate how the concept performs in scenarios where continuous connectivity and persistent sensing are essential. Chris Davlantes, founder and CEO of Reach Power, said reliable energy remains one of the biggest requirements for long-duration autonomous systems. “Wireless power could allow small unmanned systems to stay in position longer and support communications and ISR missions,” Davlantes said. He added that reducing battery replacement and recovery cycles could lower the operational burden on military personnel while helping warfighters maintain connectivity and situational awareness in contested environments. AFWERX expands defense innovation The research is funded through the Department of the Air Force’s Open Topic SBIR/STTR program, an initiative launched in 2018 to bring more commercial innovation into defense programs. AFWERX and the Air Force Research Laboratory created the program to accelerate contract awards for startups and research institutions. The effort also reduces administrative hurdles that traditionally slow government procurement, allowing smaller companies to move promising technologies toward military applications more quickly. Phase I contracts focus on proving the technical feasibility of a concept before teams compete for larger follow-on awards that support prototype development and testing. Wireless power has attracted growing interest across the defense sector because it offers a potential way to sustain sensors, communications equipment, and autonomous platforms without relying solely on onboard batteries. Research partnership takes shape The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s NIMBUS Lab will contribute expertise in autonomous systems, field robotics, and intelligent machine research as the project moves forward. Lab director Dr. Brittany Duncan said the collaboration brings together complementary capabilities to evaluate whether perched drones can function as reconfigurable mission nodes for communications and sensing. “Our goal is to evaluate how perched drones can support persistent communications and sensing,” Duncan said. She added that the research aligns with the lab’s broader mission of advancing technologies that support national security, scientific discovery, and operational resilience. The study will determine whether wireless power can become a practical tool for keeping small drones in place during extended operations. A successful outcome could eventually reduce downtime, improve battlefield communications, and expand how the military uses unmanned aircraft for persistent ISR missions.Recommended ArticlesGet the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.Aamir is a seasoned tech journalist with experience at Exhibit Magazine, Republic World, and PR Newswire. With a deep love for all things tech and science, he has spent years decoding the latest innovations and exploring how they shape industries, lifestyles, and the future of humanity.