INTEGRATORS &
PAYLOAD PROVIDERS

How open is your architecture for third-party integrations?
Our platform is built with an open, modular framework, supporting standard communication protocols and interfaces. This ensures that third-party payloads, sensors, and software modules can be integrated with minimal effort.

Can we access APIs, SDKs or developer tools for custom integrations?
Yes. We provide comprehensive APIs, SDKs, PDKs, and technical documentation to empower developers and integrators. Our engineering support team can also assist in optimizing custom payload or software implementations.

Is your platform compatible with industry-standard data formats and communication protocols (e.g., STANAG, MAVLink)?
Ascent Spirit and NX30 platforms are designed for compatibility with common protocols like MAVLink, STANAG, and other industry standards. This ensures seamless interoperability with existing data pipelines, control systems, and ground stations.

What support do you offer for testing and validating third-party payloads or systems?
When requested or required we can offer engineering support, test facilities, and technical guidance to ensure that custom third-party payloads and systems are fully validated and optimized for reliable performance on our UAV platforms.

How do you handle firmware/software updates to accommodate new capabilities or partner-developed features?
We support over-the-air firmware updates and modular software frameworks, allowing quick integration of new functionalities developed by partners. This accelerates time-to-market for new capabilities and mitigates risk of platform obsolescence.

Can we establish long-term technical partnerships or co-development agreements?
Absolutely. We welcome long-term collaborations and co-development projects. By working closely with partners, we can streamline integration efforts, share R&D insights, and jointly advance platform capabilities and customer/operator successes.

Do you provide customization options for unique payload requirements or mission profiles?
Yes. We offer three Product Development Kits (PDKs) to support the integration of unique payloads. Our modular design accommodates tailored configurations, helping partners adapt the UAV to specialized use cases—from custom sensor packages to proprietary data processing suites—without compromising reliability or certification.

CUSTOMERS

What types of payloads can your UAVs integrate?
Our UAV platforms are designed with a modular payload interface, allowing seamless integration of a wide range of sensors, cameras (EO/IR), LiDAR units, communications relays, and other mission-specific equipment. We also provide documentation and support to help integrators customize payload solutions to meet unique operational requirements.

Are your UAVs compliant with regulatory standards?
Yes. Our UAVs are developed in accordance with the relevant U.S. and international standards and guidelines. We adhere to FAA regulations for commercial use, and for government and military clients, we offer platforms compliant with Department of Defense (DoD) and NATO standards. Our Spirit UAV has been awarded Blue UAS 2.0 certification and is AUVSI Green UAS cleared, ensuring cybersecurity and supply chain practices align with those outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

What’s the typical flight time and range of your platforms?
Range and endurance are influenced by a number of factors including battery capacity, payload, weather conditions, etc. Ascent’s family of Group 1 UAVs typically achieve flight times of up to 60 minutes or longer, depending on platform, payload and environmental conditions. For more specific performance metrics, we’ll work with you to evaluate mission profiles, payload weights, and environmental factors to provide an accurate estimate tailored to your operational needs.

Can your UAVs operate in challenging environmental conditions?
Yes. Unlike traditional quadcopter or other multirotor aircraft, Ascent’s coaxial propulsion UAVs are engineered for rugged, all-weather performance. With an IP56 rating, Ascent platforms can operate in high winds (up to 50 mph), heavy rain, snow, dust, and extreme temperatures. The cylindrical, coaxial design enhances durability and simplifies environmental sealing, ensuring reliable missions even in austere or contaminated environments.

Do you offer cybersecurity or data protection features?
Absolutely. We prioritize the security of your data with encrypted data links, secure communications protocols, and hardened onboard systems. Ascent’s Spirit platform has been certified UAS Blue 2.0 compliant and holds an AUVSI Green UAS cleared certification. We can also integrate specialized cybersecurity measures tailored to government and military specifications, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected from unauthorized access.

Is the platform designed with open standards or MOSA (Modular Open Systems Approach)?
Yes. Our UAVs are designed using a Modular Open Systems Approach for both hardware and software, making it easy to integrate new technologies, software, and payloads over time. This design philosophy ensures that your investment remains futureproof, adaptable to evolving mission requirements and emerging capabilities.

How scalable are your production and delivery timelines?
We maintain flexible manufacturing processes that can scale production to meet your evolving demands. Whether you need a small batch for evaluation or large-scale production runs to protect critical infrastructure and support national security imperatives, we’ll work with you to establish realistic lead times and delivery schedules that align with your deployment plans.

Do you offer integration services with existing infrastructure or software ecosystems?
Yes. We provide integration support to ensure that our UAV data seamlessly interfaces with your command-and-control (C2) centers, data analysis software, and cloud platforms. Our engineers can collaborate with your team to establish reliable data pipelines and interoperability with existing workflows.

What is the total cost of ownership (TCO)?
TCO includes more than just the initial purchase price. We help you understand all factors—including training, maintenance, spare parts, upgrades, and support—so you have a clear picture of the long-term investment. By designing our UAVs for durability, modularity, and streamlined maintenance, we aim to keep operational costs predictable and manageable. To learn more, connect with our Business Development team.

Can your UAVs be configured for secure communications and interoperability with other systems?
Yes. Our platforms can be equipped with encrypted radios and industry-standard communication protocols to ensure secure, reliable links between the UAV, ground control stations, and other assets. This flexibility makes it easier to integrate with a wide range of systems, from secure military networks to enterprise data solutions.