M2 Optics: OptiTether – Drone

M2 Optics’ OptiTether™ drone solutions are designed for FPV drone, UAV, and UGV operators who require secure, durable physical fiber cabling connections with their UAVs, for low-latency control while providing extra resilience against wireless/RF signal detection and interference. Rapidly customized to user specifications in just days, not weeks or months, these fully NDAA-compliant canisters with integrated precision-spooled optical fiber are designed and manufactured in the USA at M2's Raleigh, NC facility. The raw materials utilized, including the optical fiber and the canister, are also US-produced, enabling users to meet the most stringent sourcing mandates. For added durability during flight, several fiber-coating materials are available, including a Kevlar-infused option. With reliable, timely availability of US-manufactured premium optical fibers from Corning, Lightera, and Prysmian, these OptiTether solutions satisfy strict sourcing mandates while also benefiting users from the material cost and production efficiencies M2 offers.

Judge’s comment: “This is an interesting solution for enabling a fiber-tethered UAV and a ground station.”