Aircraft-grade coaxial unmanned aerial systems company Ascent AeroSystems has released HELIUS, the company’s first entry into the sub-250g UAV sector. Debuted at VERTICON (formerly HAI Heli-Expo) in Texas, HELIUS is designed to be an affordable AI-enabled, US-made, NDAA-compliant option for law enforcement, emergency response, government, and industrial enterprise operators looking to upgrade or replace other systems.
Founded in 2014, Massachusetts-based Ascent AeroSystems designs and manufactures rugged, coaxial unmanned aerial vehicle drone systems for defence, public safety, and industrial markets.
“Bringing our coaxial propulsion technology to a sub-250g platform while maintaining the durability, performance, and reliability Ascent products are known for has been one of the most rewarding challenges we’ve undertaken,” said Ascent Aero Systems CEO Peter Fuchs.
“HELIUS delivers unmatched capability in its class at a competitive price,” he said. “It is the drone we’ve wanted to make from the beginning; small enough to fit in your pocket but powerful enough to meet the rigorous demands of public safety, emergency response, and critical industrial missions.”
Ascent’s HELIUS features include:
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Ultra-portable, ultra-light weight airframe;
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4G/LTE connectivity;
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AI-enabled obstacle avoidance and object tracking;
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4K, 12.3MP Electro Optical, Ultra-low-light sensor with digital tilt, pan and zoom;
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Field-swappable, rechargeable batteries;
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Up to 45 miles per hour maximum speed; and
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Thirty-plus min endurance.
“We know that the future of aviation isn’t about choosing between crewed and uncrewed systems -it’s about teaming,” said Robinson Helicopter Company CEO David Smith. “Our acquisition of Ascent AeroSystems was a strategic move to lead that evolution, HELIUS is a key step in realizing that vision.”
With an MSRP of USD4,499, HELIUS is available for pre-order now, with initial shipments expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025. Customers can purchase directly from Ascent AeroSystems or through Robinson Helicopter Company dealers who are also authorised Ascent resellers.
“HELIUS expands our growing product line and sets a new benchmark for compact UAVs,” Fuchs added. “For operators demanding durability, portability, and next-gen technology in a secure, US-made sub-250g platform, this is the solution.”
