Xplorate has taken delivery of another SDO 50 V3 Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) from SwissDrones, further expanding the company’s operational fleet and reinforcing its position as a leader in long-range, uncrewed aerial solutions for critical infrastructure sectors.
This addition to the fleet comes at a time of growing market demand for dependable, high-performance RPAS platforms that can safely and efficiently service large-scale linear infrastructure networks.
The SDO 50 V3 is uniquely positioned in this space – a Swiss-engineered, rotorcraft capable of carrying multiple payloads over extended distances, with the ability to hover precisely, even in challenging environmental conditions.
“The SDO 50 V3 is the perfect RPAS for linear infrastructure missions,” said Xplorate CEO Ronnie Fahy. “Its multi-mission payload capability, endurance, and reliability make it ideal for powerline, pipeline and environmental corridor work — especially in remote and high-risk areas.”
The delivery marks a strategic step forward for Xplorate as the company prepares to service a growing portfolio of long-term, high-value contracts across Australia and internationally.
These engagements span the energy, utilities, and environmental sectors – each with complex operational requirements and increasing expectations for safety, data quality, and environmental responsibility.
“This isn’t about short-term demand or fleet expansion for its own sake,” Fahy added. “We are securing multi-year contracts that reflect a real shift in the market. Our clients are planning for a future where uncrewed aviation is embedded in their day-to-day operations – and platforms like the SDO 50 are central to that future.”
The SDO 50’s unique combination of capabilities, including its helicopter-style flight profile, ability to operate beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), and flexible sensor integration, makes it a standout in the RPAS market. It enables Xplorate to deliver scalable aerial services without compromising on safety, quality, or operational flexibility.
As the transition from manned to uncrewed aviation continues to gain momentum globally, Xplorate is well-positioned to lead this change. By investing in the right aircraft and maintaining a sharp focus on mission-critical outcomes, the company is aligning its technology and strategy with the future needs of infrastructure owners and operators.
