The Group Paintecthrough its technological division FAS Roboticshas manufactured and already markets the most advanced drone in defense for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions, called FAS PL500, with an autonomy of 400 kilometers with vertical takeoff and landing (without need for a network for its recovery)) and at a price that is ten times lower than those used by the Spanish Army, which are around two million euros per unit.
The project has the support of strategic partners and investors such as Sherry Ventures, chaired by Antonio Haupold.
“We have analyzed the needs of the defense and security sectors. The military tells us that defense has changed and that they need cheaper and more reliable drones“, says José Manuel Ruiz, CEO of the Group Paintec.
He PL500 It stands out for its autonomy, reliability and ability to adapt to complex operating environments. It represents FAS’s commitment to the development of national technology and strategic solutions for the Armed Forces and Security Forces.
The PL500 is designed to operate in the most complex tactical scenarios, integrating a heavy fuel hybrid engine that allows up to eight hours of flight and a wide range of action. Its modular design allows different payload configurations – cameras, specific sensors or loads with a release system – and incorporates redundant communication systems (radio, satellite and 4G/5G) along with an official certified autopilot. It also has integrated artificial intelligence, developed by the Spanish company Clintellwhich significantly expands the operational capabilities of the aircraft.
José Manuel Ruiz points toOther than that “we have more than 10 years of experience in the use of drones. We have supplied equipment to firefighters, National Police, Guard Civil and numerous surveillance and security companies. Our experience is not only limited to the national level, but we are also suppliers to the United Nations, which has allowed us to deploy our teams in Senegal, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan and other countries. In addition, we have participated in large international consortia for monitoring services in Mexico and Bolivia, and we have recently been awarded a project in Peru. Among the most notable use cases are drones used for DANA, firefighters, Civil Guard, the UN and as lifeguards in Castellón, among others.
She is certified by the State Aviation Safety Agency (AESA) as a drone operator. It currently employs a team of 50 professionals, including engineers, pilots, geologists, analysts, communication specialists and certified trainers.
Services for industry
Its main services include inspections and topographical work for civil works, electrical infrastructure, telecommunications and renewable energies. Thanks to the use of high-resolution cameras, thermal sensors and advanced georeferencing techniques, GRIDFLIGHT maps, diagnoses and reports the status of highly complex facilities with maximum precision and speed, eliminating the need for scaffolding, helicopters or dangerous movements for operators.
In emergencies, the company has drones equipped with thermal cameras, speakers, night lights, GPS and recognition systems to intervene in maritime rescues, night operations or perimeter controls, reducing response times and human risks.
In the agricultural field, GRIDFLIGHT develops precision agriculture solutions that monitor the status of crops and farms on a large scale, helping to plan harvests and optimize resources. It also offers professional audiovisual services, with drones equipped with stabilized high-definition cameras, ideal for recording events, advertising spots or documentaries.
At an international level, GRIDFLIGHT has already supplied equipment to Firefighters, National Police, Civil Guard, United Nations and numerous private security companies, and has deployed its solutions in countries such as Senegal, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Mexico, Bolivia and Peru. Prominent use cases include natural disaster missions, maritime rescue, and deployments for international bodies.
Finally, GRIDFLIGHT completes its proposal with a solid division of training and advice for companies and individuals, assisting in obtaining AESA/EASA licenses and training professional pilots with a success rate of over 95%. The company also has an online store for drones and accessories, with free shipping and personalized technical advice.