Germany’s First Industrial Drone X4 Enters Series Production

Continental Engineering Services (CES) and HHLA Sky are thrilled to announce that Germany's first industrial drone, the First Responder Drone X4, is now entering series production. This development represents a significant step forward in the evolution of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), combining the innovative prowess of HHLA Sky with CES’s engineering expertise and production excellence.

German Engineering and Production

CES is bringing its engineering expertise to HHLA Sky’s Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), integrating automotive manufacturing technologies into the industrialization of drone technology. By combining CES’ proven production methods and quality standards with HHLA Sky’s award-winning innovations, we are setting new benchmarks in the UAS industry.

The X4 is an industrial-grade quadcopter, engineered for efficiency, reliability, and usability. Designed to meet the demanding requirements of first responders and security professionals, the X4 offers a host of features that elevate its performance in critical surveillance and monitoring tasks.

Industrial Design and Manufacturing

To ensure the X4 meets the highest standards of performance and durability, CES has employed a specialized design structure that reduces weight while increasing strength. By selecting a combination of state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, CES has successfully transitioned the X4 into serial production, demonstrating its commitment to quality and innovation. 

The X4’s design emphasizes not only strength and lightness but also operational efficiency and ease of use. The result is a drone that delivers reliability, low-noise operation, and real-time data streaming capabilities, making it ideal for first responders and security professionals who require immediate and accurate information in the field. 

Integration with our Integrated Control Center

In addition to manual control, one of the key features of the X4 is its seamless integration with our Integrated Control Center (ICC). The ICC is an advanced mobile robot management platform. This integration enables efficient fleet management as well as simultaneous Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations of more than 100 X4 drones (and other mobile robots) across different locations. 

This capability significantly enhances the operational flexibility and scalability of the X4, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of applications and keeps the number of highly skilled drone operators at a reasonable level.

Cutting-Edge Features

The X4 is equipped with a number of advanced technologies designed to enhance its functionality and safety, including:

  • Fully integrated ROS 2 architecture: Enables features such as enhanced security, improved real-time performance in dynamic environments, and better multi-robot support.
  • 4G/5G Encrypted Data Link: Provides secure command, control, and real-time HD video streaming to up to 20 clients, ensuring reliable communication during critical missions.
  • Versatile Payload Options: Offers flexible configurations of RGB-only or combined RGB/IR sensors to meet a variety of surveillance and monitoring needs.
  • High-Precision RTK-GNSS and Safety Parachute: Ensures accurate positioning and safe operations in diverse environments.
  • Infrared Position Light: Enhances visibility and safety, especially in low-light conditions.

CES' Contribution to the European Drone Ecosystem

As a leading engineering and technology partner, CES is proud to contribute to the development of a strong and innovative European drone ecosystem. The X4 is engineered in Germany, reflecting CES’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and the highest standards of quality. CES’ collaboration with HHLA Sky represents a significant step forward in the industrialization of drone technology, setting new standards for safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility. 

To learn more about CES’ role in advancing urban air mobility and drone technology, visit the CES UAM page. To view the CES X4 release, please visit the News section of the CES website.

Get in Touch with HHLA Sky

For more details on the German engineered and crafted X4 please ask your personal contact or email us at sky@hhla.de.

To explore the ability to operate multiple X4 drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) at scale, check out the HHLA Sky Integrated Control Center product page.