Pierce Aerospace has achieved a major milestone in the drone industry. That’s because its B1 Remote ID Beacon this month became the first and only Remote ID module selected for the Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Blue UAS Framework.
What’s the big deal about that? For companies seeking products that are secure and made using approved components, this one has an official stamp of approval. Basically, it means this particular Remote ID beacon meets the highest standards of cybersecurity and operational performance. And with it, this level of U.S. federal recognition positions the B1 as the premier solution for government and commercial drone operators looking for NDAA-compliant Remote ID technology.
Related read: Is your drone flight Remote ID compliant? Here are the 4 types of legal drone flights
A first for Remote ID and Blue UAS
The Blue UAS Framework is a critical program that establishes a vetted list of interoperable, NDAA-compliant UAS components and software. It provides government agencies, including the Department of Defense (DOD), with reliable and secure drone technology while reducing procurement and operational risks.
With this selection, the B1 Remote ID Beacon will now begin the NDAA and cybersecurity verification process required to join the Blue UAS Framework Authority to Operate (ATO). The B1’s addition to the program streamlines its acquisition for military and government agencies, ensuring that DOD operators and public safety professionals can integrate the module seamlessly into their operations.
“The B1 Remote ID Beacon is the only Remote ID Module selected for the Blue UAS Framework,” said Aaron Pierce, CEO of Pierce Aerospace in a prepared statement. “The B1’s selection by DIU is an honor, and we look forward to continuing to support our federal, public safety, and professional commercial customers across the country with the new designation as the only Blue UAS Remote ID Module on the market.”
How the Blue UAS Framework selection process works
DIU’s selection process for the Blue UAS Framework was highly competitive, with 369 proposals from companies across the U.S. and 18 other countries. From these, only 23 platforms and 14 unique components were chosen for NDAA verification.
And alas, Pierce Aerospace’s B1 Remote ID Beacon stood out among hundreds of proposals.
Why the B1 Remote ID Beacon stands out
The B1 Remote ID Beacon is a popular Remote ID solution for enterprise and government applications. Its high-performance design has supported national security missions, aided in UAS recovery efforts, and is trusted by everything from public safety agencies to professional drone operators in the film industry.
Some key specs of the B1 Remote ID Beacon:
- Cable tie mounts for high speed operation
- 8 hour battery life
- Compliant with the ASTM F3411-22 standard
- Designed to not upset anti-collision sensors, including Skydio sensors
One of its standout capabilities is its compatibility with high-speed drones and drones equipped with anti-collision sensors, which traditionally struggle with attached payloads. This versatility makes the B1 an optimal choice for a wide range of applications, from military training exercises to disaster response coordination.
Now the module is among the priciest. It costs $275 (though there are discounts if you order in bulk). Still, that’s far more expensive than something like the $30 Holy Stone FAA Compliant Remote Identification Broadcast Module.
Recreational pilots just seeking to get their camera drone to become Remote ID compliant are likely better off saving their money going with something like that. The B1 Remote ID Beacon from Pierce Aerospace is best for enterprise customers who need to have that Blue UAS stamp of approval.
Enhancing military and disaster response operations
A key advantage of the B1 Remote ID Beacon within the Blue UAS Framework is its ability to enhance military training and emergency response efforts.
“There are numerous use cases for DOD end users to employ the B1 during training and in National Guard missions,” said Pierce. “Blue UAS flown by the DOD don’t always come equipped with Remote ID, which makes training and coordinated flight operations challenging in natural disaster responses. As part of the Blue UAS Framework, the B1 can more easily be acquired to help keep track of drones in training missions and ease coordination in complex airspace for disaster response missions.”
By integrating the B1 Remote ID Beacon, DOD and National Guard operators can squawk Remote ID when required, ensuring compliance with mission parameters while improving airspace awareness and coordination.
About Pierce Aerospace
Pierce Aerospace is an American drone company based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The comapny has been a pioneer in Remote ID technology since 2017, and this latest achievement underscores its leadership in the field. The company plays an active role in shaping the future of drone safety and airspace management through its involvement with key regulatory and industry bodies, including:
- FAA’s Drone Safety Team
- ASTM F38 Committee on Unmanned Aircraft Systems
- FAA Detection and Mitigation Advanced Rulemaking Committee
Pierce Aerospace’s Remote ID technology has received national recognition, earning accolades such as Indiana’s Innovation of the Year and first place in Remote ID technology at AUVSI’s Excellence Awards.
“The B1’s addition to the Blue UAS Framework demonstrates our company’s commitment to creating high-quality products and services for our customers,” said Pierce. “Our commitment and insight ensure that we consistently produce the highest quality Remote ID products on the market.”
And this latest news means a big leg up for Pierce Aerospace going forward. Because sure, the integration of the B1 Remote ID Beacon into the Blue UAS Framework will benefit government and military operators. But it also means a likely stronger customer base for the company.
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