Czech Firm FlyinDiamonds Pioneers Drone Testing Polygon and Advances Drone Technology
Moravské Budějovice, Czech Republic – A new drone testing polygon in the Czech Republic is poised to accelerate the development and certification of unmanned aerial systems, spearheaded by the Czech firm FlyinDiamonds. The facility offers a unique environment for companies, universities, and government institutions to innovate and push the boundaries of drone technology, particularly in light of rapidly evolving capabilities outpacing current regulations.
Unique Testing Environment
The polygon provides users with up to 300 square kilometers of airspace free from interference from manned aircraft, eliminating the need for deconfliction with planes or helicopters. It also incorporates existing obstacles and dilapidated buildings, offering realistic testing scenarios. According to Tomáš Jelínek, co-founder of FlyinDiamonds, this environment is crucial for advancing the industry. “We are connecting facilities here for the training, development and testing of drones, as well as airspace that we can close to other traffic,” Jelínek explained.
War in Ukraine Accelerates Drone Development
The development of unmanned vehicles has been significantly accelerated by recent global events, notably the war in Ukraine. Jelínek notes that “technology has overtaken regulations,” with drones now capable of flying hundreds of kilometers, autonomously taking off and landing, and delivering packages – capabilities not yet fully permitted under Czech law.
FlyinDiamonds: From Light Shows to Advanced Drone Solutions
FlyinDiamonds, founded in 2020 and formally registered in March 2022 by Jiří Janoušek, Josef Jelínek, and Tomáš Jelínek, initially focused on drone light shows. The company now provides tailored control software and drone manufacturing for cutting-edge light displays, offering a high-tech alternative to traditional pyrotechnics. Dealroom.co highlights the company’s innovative approach to live entertainment.
The company has also developed specialized drones nicknamed “Mandrakes” due to the high-pitched whistling sound they emit upon landing, aiding operators in locating them in challenging terrain. Tomáš Jelínek explained the practical purpose of this feature, stating, “It whistles like the mythical mandrake…when dozens or hundreds start whistling and beeping like this, it becomes almost unbearable.”
Applications Beyond Entertainment
The new testing polygon and advancements in drone technology are expected to have far-reaching applications. Jelínek envisions “a kind of highway in the air, where drones will fly independently and carry, for example, medical supplies.” The Czech fire department is already leveraging drone technology, utilizing specialized trailers equipped with reconnaissance and heavy transport drones to improve emergency response effectiveness, including rapid material delivery to inaccessible locations and support during floods or large-scale fires.
Industry Collaboration and Future Outlook
Jakub Karas, president of the Alliance for the Unmanned Aircraft Industry, emphasizes the strategic importance of the polygon, stating “For a long time, we are trying to be among the top in Europe. This polygon is a strategic place where we can meet and innovate this whole industry.” The facility is attracting significant interest from foreign companies seeking to test and certify their unmanned vehicle systems.