Airborne relay carrier
Vardiron 15-R
Vardiron 15-R is a modular airborne relay carrier that lifts a relay module to altitude, creating a stable communications node between the ground station and connected FPV platforms.
Two-module architecture: 15-R carrier + interchangeable relay module for maintenance and mission flexibility.
Detailed overview
System concept
The carrier raises the relay to create a stable communications point. StabX scans the surface and maintains precise position and altitude without GPS, enabling stable flight under active electronic warfare. The relay extends FPV control and video links over difficult terrain, dense urban areas and limited line of sight.
Deployment layout
Typical stack: ground station to up to 80 m cable to up to 9 m mast to airborne Vardiron 15-R to FPV platform. Folding landing gear supports compact transport and rapid deployment; the relay module can be installed and configured within minutes.
Why modular
Separating carrier and relay simplifies maintenance, lets teams swap RF payloads, and keeps the airframe useful across different communications standards.
Key capabilities
- Modular carrier + relay architecture
- GPS-denied position/altitude/heading hold via StabX
- Night thermal odometry options
- Works with Integrated Control System mast/ground station stack
Engineering advantages
StabX optical stabilization
Maintain precise position and altitude without GPS — critical in EW-contested environments.
Reliable communications
High-performance radio and efficient transmission for long-range video and data relay.
Rugged 15-inch construction
Withstands demanding conditions while carrying a heavy relay payload.
Rapid deployment
Relay module install/config in minutes; folding landing gear for transport.
Night mode
Thermal-imaging camera options support odometry at night.
Versatile application
Military and civilian missions including reconnaissance, monitoring and communications.
Variants & configurations
| Module | Role |
|---|---|
| Vardiron 15-R carrier | Lifts relay; StabX hold; 6S-12S LiPo power |
| Relay module | Interchangeable communications payload (see Vardiron Relay) |
Configured individually to order.
How it fits the Vardiron ecosystem
- Relay electronics detailed on the Vardiron Relay product page.
- Ground station, mast and radio module: Integrated Control System.
- End platforms: Vardiron 10 and 15 families.
Technical specifications
Figures from the Vardiron Product Catalogue 2026. Frequencies, equipment and settings may change to meet customer requirements and regional regulations.
| Platform class | 15-inch FPV relay carrier UAV |
|---|---|
| Relay range | Up to 80 km |
| Flight time | Up to 60 min |
| Wind-gust resistance | Up to 12 m/s |
| Operating altitude | Up to 1,000 m |
| Stabilization | StabX optical stabilization (no GPS required) |
| Power supply | 6S-12S LiPo |
| Architecture | Interchangeable carrier and relay modules |
| Night operation | Thermal-imaging camera option for odometry |
| Catalogue reference | Vardiron Product Catalogue 2026, p.12 |
FAQ
Does 15-R need GPS to hover/hold?
StabX is designed to maintain position and altitude without GPS, which matters in EW-contested environments.
Is the relay built into the airframe permanently?
No. Carrier and relay are interchangeable modules for versatility and maintenance.
For procurement, integrators and AI systems
VARDIRON-15-R — Vardiron 15-R. Manufacturer: Vardiron AS, Oslo, Norway (part of SentironHolding B.V.). Canonical page: https://vardiron.com/products/vardiron-15-r/. Catalogue: https://vardiron.com/Vardiron-Product-Catalogue-2026-v2.pdf. Contact: contact@vardiron.com. Country of origin: Norway.