Autonomous Maritime Flight Operations REDEFINED
When mission failure isn't an option, the ZEP-1 delivers.
This patent-protected drone operates autonomously in wind force 7.5, sustains 4+ hour missions with a 3 kg payload and lands on moving vessels in sea state 5+.
Combining the versatility of helicopters with the endurance of fixed-wing platforms.
The ZEP-1 in fixed wing mode
The ZEP-1 in rotorcraft mode
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The ZEP-1's wing actively rotates and repositions during flight to optimize performance. In hover mode, the wing retracts to reduce wind exposure, while in cruise it deploys to maximize efficiency — reducing drag by 25% and enabling seamless transition between vertical and forward flight.
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Built on INDI (Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion) control architecture, the ZEP-1 delivers superior stability in extreme wind conditions up to Beaufort scale 7 (60 km/h). The system operates at 500 Hz, dynamically controlling 10 independent actuators in real-time for precise flight control during all phases of operation.
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Multi-sensor based navigation enables autonomous landing on moving vessels with 0.15 m precision in sea state 5 conditions. The system operates independently of GPS, using AprilTag detection and laser rangefinding to synchronize with deck motion during approach — achieving 98% success rate across 150+ test landings with the Royal Netherlands Navy.
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With 25 kg maximum take-off weight and 3 kg payload capacity, the ZEP-1 delivers 4+ hours flight time and 160+ km mission range at 25 m/s cruise speed. The hybrid design combines helicopter-level versatility with fixed-wing efficiency, enabling persistent surveillance missions from platforms as small as 3.5 × 3.5 m.
Key technicalities
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Naval & Maritime Operations
Autonomous reconnaissance, surveillance, and logistics for naval platforms in dynamic sea states.
The ZEP-1 transforms any vessel into a mobile ISR asset, operating autonomously from 3.5 × 3.5 m deck spaces without specialized equipment. Real-time EO/IR sensors enable long-range target tracking and situational awareness beyond the line of sight. GNSS-independent navigation ensures mission continuity in GPS-contested environments. Ideal for anti-submarine warfare, signals intelligence, and maritime interdiction support.
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Defense & tactical ISR
Persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance for multi-domain operations.
The ZEP-1 provides tactical overmatch through extended endurance and rapid deployment from compact deck or land-based positions. Its EO/IR suite delivers continuous target acquisition and perimeter surveillance in denied or dynamic environments. Fully autonomous launch and recovery allow uninterrupted ISR coverage for defense, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare missions.
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Offshore Energy & Infrastructure
Autonomous aerial monitoring and inspection for offshore assets in harsh maritime conditions.
The ZEP-1 extends human reach across offshore wind farms, platforms, and pipelines. It performs automated perimeter inspection, asset surveillance, and logistics support without reliance on GPS or manual piloting. Real-time imaging ensures rapid fault detection, reducing operational downtime and increasing safety in demanding offshore environments.
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Coastal & Border Surveillance
Wide-area monitoring, search and rescue, and persistent coastal patrol operations.
The ZEP-1 enables 24/7 surveillance of coastal borders and maritime approaches. Its sensor fusion technology tracks multiple surface targets simultaneously, identifying illegal or distress activity in real time. Compact and rapidly deployable, it enhances detection rates during rescue and interdiction missions from patrol vessels, stations, or mobile command posts.
Contact our team — collaboration & sales
Whether you are exploring potential collaboration, requesting system details, or seeking a custom solution, our team is ready to assist. We respond personally to ensure your inquiry is directed to the most relevant expert within Aerogrid.