At MSPO 2025 in Kielce, Polish company Underant introduced the Avalon UAV, a vertical launch drone designed for fully autonomous missions and satellite-guided remote operations. Engineered to meet the demands of modern battlefields where mobility, speed, and survivability are paramount, Avalon represents a new phase in UAV development, merging swarm technology with satellite-enabled launch capabilities for tactical reconnaissance, logistics support, and strategic surveillance.
Avalon combines autonomous flight with manual override, allowing real-time mission adjustments by operators. With a top speed of 28 m/s, 40 minutes of endurance, and a 30 km operational range, it is optimized for short- and medium-range missions. A defining feature is its ability to operate within coordinated swarms of up to 12 drones launched sequentially from the AVABOX mobile platform, which can be mounted on pickup trucks. Pneumatic lifts enable rapid deployment, giving forces immediate response capability in both military and civilian missions.
Beyond defense, Avalon is also suited for border security, infrastructure and forest monitoring, and rapid search-and-rescue in disaster zones. Its vertical launch capability ensures adaptability to diverse terrain, while AI-driven navigation supports precision cargo delivery—extending its role beyond intelligence and reconnaissance.
Compared with existing UAV systems in Europe or the U.S., Avalon distinguishes itself by merging swarm-enabled operations with satellite-controlled remote launches. This allows missions to be conducted far from the frontline, reducing operator risk while maintaining command effectiveness. Echoing battlefield trends in Ukraine and the Middle East, Avalon prioritizes scalability and cost-efficiency, offering a multi-role solution through small but coordinated units.
Strategically, Avalon strengthens Poland’s position within NATO’s defense innovation ecosystem and enhances export potential. For border security, it provides an asymmetric response to hybrid threats while minimizing personnel exposure. Its unveiling at MSPO 2025 highlights how swarm-capable, satellite-guided UAVs are reshaping future airpower concepts, emphasizing rapid deployment, autonomy, and strategic reach as critical elements of modern warfare.
