US-based wireless network service supplier Rajant has provided its InstaMesh routing software for inxCraft’s x2i hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone.

Equipped with the company's onboard intelligence solution, the drone will be able to fly in single, swarm or tethered configurations, allowing new ways of commercial opportunity.

Using InstaMesh, the x2i aircraft can deliver broadband over VTOL aircraft capable of transmitting up to 300mbps speed for various applications such as public safety, mining, forestry, agriculture, oil and gas, as well as homeland security.

InstaMesh also reduces the amount of time required to configure the drone and the Rajant network for flight.

"x2i enables Rajant customers to cover greater aerial distances while supporting various drone payloads for video, LIDAR and chemical detection.”

Rajant chairman and CEO Bob Schena said: “Rajant’s network technology now makes it possible for one pilot to operate many x2i aircraft concurrently, with flight times of 45min.

“We’re pleased to partner with xCraft and bring more intelligence, mobility and autonomy to UAV communication infrastructures.

“Building upon our recent selection as the network infrastructure provider for the Sharp INTELLOS automated unmanned ground vehicle (‘A-UGV’), x2i enables Rajant customers to cover greater aerial distances while supporting various drone payloads for video, LIDAR and chemical detection.”

Combining the hovering ability of a multirotor with the attributes of a plane, the x2i VTOL aircraft is also capable of flying at speeds up to 60mph with around 1.5lb of payload.

xCraft CEO JD Claridge said: “Unlike other drones, the x2i takes off and lands vertically, and transitions to forward flight using its high-efficiency wing.

“Its capabilities, together with Rajant’s wireless network infrastructure, open the door to hundreds of commercial applications that can benefit from high-speed, long-range flight.”

The company plans to exhibit the drone at the Auvsi Xponential event in Dallas, US.