AeroVironment, a U.S. defense contractor, has officially launched its latest innovation, the TOM 50 RE, a lightweight ground drone. The unveiling took place at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition in Paris.
The TOM 50 RE stands out for its mobility and compact design, weighing under 10 kilograms, allowing for easy transport in a standard backpack. It can be operated and carried by a single soldier or special operations personnel.
This drone features specialized propulsion systems that enable it to navigate obstacles effectively, including:
- Ascending stairs independently,
- Traversing rough terrain,
- Manoeuvring in confined spaces within buildings.
A key capability of the TOM 50 RE is its support for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology. This allows the drone to generate detailed digital maps of multi-story buildings and areas where GPS signals are unavailable, making it particularly useful in underground structures and densely populated urban environments. Military personnel can identify critical objects on the maps created by the drone and relay data for mission planning.
For enhanced situational awareness, the drone is equipped with four high-resolution cameras featuring infrared illumination, providing a full 360-degree view in various visibility conditions, including nighttime.
The drone’s IP-mesh radio communication architecture ensures secure channels and enables it to function as a mobile relay, extending the network for soldiers trapped in debris or structures.
The TOM 50 RE can operate continuously for up to five hours on a single charge and carry a payload of up to five kilograms. The developers tailored this system to meet the specific needs of ground forces, bomb disposal teams, special operations units, and SWAT teams. Its modular Mission Module Interface allows for the quick integration of specialized tools for bomb disposal or additional sensors.
The device supports four primary combat roles:
Mobile Reconnaissance – for quick assessments in unknown and hazardous areas;
Mission Support – conducting reconnaissance with automatic terrain mapping capabilities;
Explosive Disposal – neutralizing bombs using modular disruptors or dropping explosive charges;
Operational Support – using the drone as a communication relay or additional sensor platform.
Control is managed via proprietary software, Halo, on Tomahawk Grip systems or through the Robo Command Control System, allowing coordination with other drone systems simultaneously. Developers emphasized the need for mobile systems that can move alongside operators, quickly adapt to tasks, and provide immediate reconnaissance to reduce risks for infantry.
AeroVironment has launched the TOM 50 RE drone, designed for military applications, at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris. This lightweight drone features advanced mapping technology and can operate in various challenging environments, enhancing situational awareness for ground forces.