Advanced autonomy and security strategies for UAS

Published: November 2025

Context-sensitive sensor technology encompasses sensor systems that obtain relevant information from their environment and interpret it meaningfully. Various sensor data (e.g., optical, acoustic, etc.) are processed and enhanced through the use of AI-based systems to process, evaluate, and react to context-dependent environmental data in real time. The combination of different sensors enables in-depth environmental analysis and increases the safety and efficiency of the systems. The goal is to enable the most precise object navigation possible as well as adapted reactions to changes in the environment.

Guiding questions

How can safety standards and fault tolerance in autonomous UAS be further optimized to expand their areas of application?
What technological requirements must communication and sensor systems meet to enable safe and precise real-time control?
What specific infrastructure measures and regulatory adjustments are needed to promote the use of autonomous drones in Thuringia?
How can innovative drone concepts such as eVTOL be effectively used to make industrial applications more efficient?
What priority R&D fields are required to accelerate the technological maturity and market integration of autonomous UAS and eVTOL drones?

Image description: A drone flies over a city with tall skyscrapers.

Challenges

The development of advanced autonomy systems for UAS places high demands on safety, data integrity, and energy efficiency. The use of AI-based control mechanisms requires reliable risk management processes, particularly to minimize errors and improve fault tolerance. Additionally, the integration of modern technologies such as sensor technology and communication systems is necessary to adapt the systems to different operating conditions. Widespread deployment requires reliable integration into existing air traffic regulations and sufficient infrastructure for real-time control and monitoring.

Concrete examples

Precision agriculture: targeted application of fertilizers and pesticides using drones
Inspection of critical infrastructure such as bridges, wind turbines, power lines
eVTOL drones: Electrically powered, vertical take-off and landing drones are increasingly being used in urban air mobility and could revolutionize passenger transport and logistics