Tether solutions for professional UAV systems

TETHER describes the cable-based power supply and datalink solution for suitable Vectorbirds UAV systems. Depending on the configuration, power supply, control, mission data, payload data and network access can be routed via a tether cable or through combined cable/radio architectures.

Vectorbirds integrates tether systems from the German manufacturer VALOFLY into its own UAV system solutions and adapts them to platform, payload, operating altitude, data connection and mission profile. This creates cable-based UAV solutions for mission profiles where extended endurance, stable data connection, defined positioning and controlled UAV operation are essential.

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TETHER is not a standalone UAV platform, but a cable-based operating and integration solution for suitable UAV systems. The aircraft is connected to a ground unit via a tether cable and, depending on the system design, can be supplied with power, data or a combination of both.

The key advantage is extended endurance and a stable connection to the UAV. While a free-flying UAV is limited by battery capacity, datalink range and mission duration, a tether system enables controlled operation at a defined position over significantly longer periods of time.

Typical mission profiles include stationary situational awareness, perimeter monitoring, temporary communication nodes, relay applications, security observation and mission-specific operating modes where an elevated sensor or antenna position is required for an extended period.

For compact UAV integrations, a Micro-Tether solution can be used. This is a smaller tether electronics unit without an integrated cable winch, designed especially for lighter UAV systems and reduced operating altitudes.

The Micro-Tether solution is typically operated from a 230 V power supply and provides electrical power to the UAV via a tether cable. Depending on UAV platform, payload, cable length and lifting capability, operating altitudes of approximately 40 to 60 m are possible. For particularly light or payload-limited platforms, the practically usable cable length may be lower.

The Micro-Tether variant is especially relevant when a simple, compact and power-focused supply solution is required, but no automatic cable winch or extensive data infrastructure is needed. For applications with advanced network functions, fibre-optic options, internet/data connectivity or higher power requirements, a larger tether ground unit is usually recommended.

At Vectorbirds, tether solutions are not treated as a fixed single product, but are configured according to the application based on UAV platform, payload, operating altitude, power demand and data requirements. Depending on the mission profile, compact Micro-Tether integrations or larger tether ground units can be used.

The Tether Vehicle Module, or TVM, forms the UAV-side interface between tether cable, power supply and onboard architecture. It replaces the previously used term OBM or onboard module and describes the electronic unit integrated on the UAV.

Depending on the system design, the TVM handles the connection of the tether power supply, voltage adaptation, integration into the onboard power system and coordination with buffer battery, flight controller, payload and safety functions. This makes the TVM a central component of tether integration and not merely an external accessory.

Vectorbirds configures the TVM according to the respective UAV platform, payload and tether configuration. Key factors include power demand, take-off weight, cable length, thermal management, electrical protection functions and the desired operating profile. Only through this UAV-side integration does a tether ground unit become a robust cable-based UAV system solution.

Tether solutions can be used not only for power supply, but also, depending on the configuration, for data transmission, network connectivity and mission communication. This allows the UAV to be integrated into a controlled cable-based or hybrid communication architecture.

In simple configurations, the UAV is powered via the tether cable, while control, telemetry and payload data continue to be transmitted via radio. In extended configurations, Ethernet, network access, video data or mission-specific data paths can additionally be routed via the tether connection.

For more demanding applications, fibre-optic options are also possible depending on the tether system and integration setup. These are particularly suitable for mission profiles with increased requirements for data stability, range of the ground-side connection, network segmentation, video streaming or integration into higher-level control and mission systems.

As part of the system integration process, Vectorbirds evaluates whether a radio/tether hybrid architecture, a cable-based data solution or a separated power and data architecture is appropriate. Key factors include operating altitude, data volume, latency requirements, security level, payload and the existing infrastructure at the deployment site.

Vectorbirds integrates tether solutions into suitable UAV platforms and configures the system according to payload, operating altitude, power demand, data connection and mission profile. The result is not an isolated accessory system, but a cable-based operating mode adapted to the respective UAV.

Depending on the platform, tether solutions can be implemented for compact reconnaissance UAVs, larger multirotor systems or mission-specific payload carriers. Tether ground unit, tether cable, Tether Vehicle Module, buffer battery, flight controller, payload, datalink and Ground Control Station are considered as one integrated system.

For smaller UAVs, a Micro-Tether integration may be suitable when a compact power supply for reduced operating altitudes is the main requirement. For larger platforms, higher power demand, longer cable lengths or extended data and network functions, more powerful tether ground units are used.

The specific design is always configuration-dependent. Vectorbirds evaluates, among other factors, take-off weight, lifting capability, wind load, cable length, electrical power reserve, payload data, safety logic and the intended operating environment.

Tether solutions are particularly suitable for mission profiles where a UAV needs to operate at a defined position for an extended period of time. The combination of cable-based power supply, stable system connection and an elevated sensor or antenna position creates operational value compared to purely battery-based short-duration flights.

• Persistent situational awareness: continuous observation from an elevated position for command staff, security forces or technical monitoring applications.
• Perimeter and asset protection: extended monitoring of access points, terrain sections, infrastructure, events or temporary security areas.
• Temporary communication node: use of the UAV as an elevated antenna, relay, router or repeater position to extend local communication ranges.
• Stationary ISR applications: aerial observation with EO/IR sensors for reconnaissance, surveillance and security-critical situational assessment.
• Technical inspection and infrastructure monitoring: controlled observation of facilities, transport routes, construction sites, energy infrastructure or hard-to-access areas.
• Mobile or remote deployment: operation of a tether solution directly at the deployment site, remotely in the field or as part of a larger mobile system architecture.

The specific suitability depends on UAV platform, payload, desired operating altitude, data connection, ground-side power supply and the respective safety concept. Vectorbirds evaluates these factors and derives a suitable tether configuration from them.