Advanced Technologies Could Keep Drones Airborne Indefinitely

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), such as the Stalker drones used by the US Special Forces, could remain airborne indefinitely, at least in theory. During a recent series of tests, scientists found that lasers could be used to refuel the aircraft mid-flight.

Usually, Stalkers are powered by a battery that enables two hours of flight. During the new tests, it was discovered that a laser can be used to recharge the batteries wirelessly, enabling the vehicle to remain in the air 24 times longer than normal, Space reports.

The special laser used during the experiments was made by LaserMotive. The company's president, Tom Nugent, believes that this is one of the finishing touches brought to the effort of bringing wireless electrical recharging capabilities to the front lines.

“By enabling in-flight recharging, this system will ultimately extend capabilities, improve endurance and enable new missions for electric aircraft,” the company official explains.