Shares of AgEagle Aerial Systems, Inc. (AMEX: UAVS) experienced a significant increase on Friday, driven by the company’s announcement of a sale involving six eBee TAC tactical mapping drones to the U.S. Army. This development underscores growing interest from defense sectors in unmanned aerial systems equipped with advanced mapping and intelligence gathering technologies.
The transaction was facilitated through AgEagle’s commercial European partner, Dronivo GmbH. Included in the sale were six eBee TAC drones outfitted with the S.O.D.A. 3D and Duet M sensors, which feature full Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) and Post-Processed Kinematic (PPK) activation. This combination allows for centimeter-level precision in spatial data collection, a critical asset in tactical operations requiring detailed mapping accuracy without reliance on extensive ground control points.
The eBee TAC drones are engineered for tactical reconnaissance and mapping missions, with operational capacity maintained even in disconnected or difficult environment conditions. The integration of the S.O.D.A. 3D sensor provides enhanced photogrammetric functions through simultaneous capture of nadir and oblique imagery, facilitating the creation of accurate three-dimensional spatial models. In parallel, the Duet M sensor delivers combined RGB and multispectral imaging capabilities, enabling applications such as vegetation health assessment, environmental monitoring, and surface terrain modeling.
Bill Irby, CEO of AgEagle, highlighted the sale as illustrative of increasing demand for high-grade tactical mapping solutions within military applications. Additionally, Irby pointed to the company’s implementation of operational improvements designed to accelerate production and delivery timelines extending through 2025. These measures aim to streamline fulfillment processes, thereby minimizing lead times and improving customer satisfaction.
Technically, the eBee TAC is a fixed-wing drone launched by hand, notable for its 90-minute flight endurance and operational range of approximately 17.2 miles. Its design also incorporates digital camouflage and compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), along with inclusion in the Blue Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program, reinforcing its alignment with U.S. defense procurement standards.
According to AgEagle, potential applications for the eBee TAC drones encompass a broad spectrum of military and security operations. These include border surveillance, tactical mapping to support operational planning, intelligence collection, search and rescue missions, counterinsurgency operations, as well as training and simulation support activities.
Following the announcement, AgEagle’s share price rose substantially, reflecting positive market reception to the contract and anticipated growth prospects in the defense-focused drone segment. At the time the data was recorded, the stock was trading approximately 29.49% higher, with a quoted price of around $1.053 per share.
This notable transaction and stock movement underscore AgEagle’s strengthening presence in tactical drone markets, driven by technological innovation and strategic partnerships. Continued enhancements in operational efficiency and growing defense applications suggest potential avenues for sustained demand, although the company remains subject to factors influencing delivery schedules and competitive pressures within this evolving industry.