Ascent AeroSystems unveils new coaxial rotor delivery drone

Ascent AeroSystems, a leading manufacturer of compact, all-weather, high-performance coaxial rotor platforms, has introduced a new drone designed for transporting objects of up to 5 lbs. in even exacting flight conditions.

Massachusetts-based Ascent AeroSystems revealed its new NX30 drone this week, after making initial deliveries of the craft in December to an undisclosed customer who’d contacted the company with specifications for the kind of UAV it needed. Like Ascent’s earlier Spirit, the resulting NX30 sports a compact, cylindrical form outfitted with a pair of coaxial rotors that allow it to resist even the most punishing atmospheric conditions. As such, the hauling vehicle representing what designers call a superior delivery aircraft than conventional multirotor and fixed-wing options.

The conical design of the NX30 reduces its airframe considerably compared to other UAVs, making it easier to store,…