Freefly Astro Max Aircraft (NDAA/Blue): Secure, U.S.-assembled industrial drone platform for professional operations
The Freefly Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) is an industrial-grade drone platform designed and assembled in the United States using NDAA-compliant components. Built under the Department of Defense Blue UAS framework, it provides government and enterprise users with a secure, proven, and compliant aircraft for critical operations. With a 3 kg maximum payload and up to 43 minutes of flight time, the Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) delivers the performance and reliability expected from a U.S.-vetted aerial platform.
Built for compliance and mission confidence
The Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) integrates secure flight control electronics, NDAA-compliant components, and open firmware validated under the Blue UAS program. Equipped with 7010 motors and 21-inch propellers, it delivers high thrust and stability under heavy loads. Its carbon-fiber foldable design, Smart Dovetail payload interface, and dual SL8 Air battery system make it an adaptable and durable solution for teams conducting secure field operations or government-grade missions.
Advanced precision and professional versatility
Supporting professional payloads such as LiDAR, thermal, and mapping sensors, the Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) provides centimeter-level accuracy through RTK-ready positioning. The Pilot Pro controller delivers secure telemetry, precise control, and real-time mission data. With its open payload architecture and secure communication design, the Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) ensures mission flexibility and full compliance for operations that demand both capability and security.
Key Features and Benefits
- NDAA/Blue UAS compliant: Meets DoD-approved sourcing and security standards
- Designed and assembled in the USA: Built with NDAA-compliant components
- 7010 motors with 21-inch propellers: Delivers powerful, stable lift
- 3 kg maximum payload: Supports professional-grade sensors
- Up to 43 minutes flight time: Long endurance without payload
- Carbon-fiber foldable frame: Compact and durable for transport
- Smart Dovetail quick-mount: Enables tool-free sensor changes
- Dual SL8 Air battery system: Extends flight time and redundancy
- RTK-ready GPS: Provides centimeter-level positioning accuracy
- Pilot Pro controller: Secure operation with real-time telemetry
Applications and Use Cases
- Government and defense operations: NDAA-compliant aerial data collection
- Infrastructure inspection: Secure visual or thermal assessments
- Public safety response: Rapid-deploy platform for mission awareness
- LiDAR and mapping: Precision geospatial capture and 3D modeling
- Utility and energy inspection: Safe monitoring of power assets and pipelines
- Construction and site documentation: Regular aerial progress updates
- Research and environmental monitoring: Reliable, secure data gathering
- Industrial inspection: Repeatable, high-resolution aerial imaging
The Freefly Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) provides unmatched reliability and compliance for agencies and enterprises requiring secure, U.S.-assembled hardware. Its combination of Blue UAS certification, advanced payload support, and flight endurance makes it the go-to platform for professional and government use.
1x Astro Max (with folding landing gear, high efficiency props, and Astro Isolator)*
1x Astro compact travel case
1x each hex driver (1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm)
4x Proptectors
Spare parts:
1x Extra Proptector
4x Spare isolator balls
2x Rubber hole grommet
1x Pilot Pro controller
1x Samsung Active Tab (pre-configured and installed into controller)
1x Herelink 1.1 RF (2.4 GHz)
1x Custom padded neck strap
Astro Max
Up to 43 minutes flight time
31 minutes with LR1 Payload
20 minutes with max payload (3kg)
3kg max payload
Booms fold up to ½ the diameter
Pre-installed Astro Isolator for quick-release powered payload attachment
Alternate payload attachments sold separately:
Integrator Vibration Isolator (non-electronic)
Freefly Smart Dovetail Kit (hard mount)
Astro Max Isolator (50A & 70A options for payloads over 1.5 KG / 3.3 lbs)
Pilot Pro Controller
High resolution rockers for precise camera / gimbal control
Configured with robust long-range radio hardware:
Herelink 1.1 Radio (2.4 GHz)
Internal battery with external power inputs to support hot-swapping for maximum uptime
Emergency kill-switch
Discreet physical buttons for all key user actions
Includes custom configured, pre-installed 8" Samsung Galaxy Tablet Active5 tablet
Realtime drone and gimbal speed limits
Custom padded neck strap
Astro Compact Travel Case
Holds everything needed to fly Astro
Astro with 2 SL8 batteries* installed and legs folded
Pilot Pro radio controller
LR1 Payload (sold separately)
Pair of SL8 Chargers
Set of spare props (1 each CW & CCW)
Basic tools
Custom cut foam, tested to protect against drops from 1 meter
Submersible and dust tight (MIL-STD 810G)
Airline checkable
SKB Rolling Case - 3i-2217-10
Case Dimensions
24.52" x 19.5" x 12.22" / 62.28 x 49.53 x 31.04 cm
Weight of Astro in Case
As shipped/checked (no SL8s): 36.16 lbs / 16.40 kg
Full kit (with two SL8s*): 40.66 lbs / 18.44 kg
Batteries
SL8-Air Batteries*
Astro uses two SL8-Air batteries per flight
Voltage: 21.6 V (6S)
Capacity: 7.3 Ah, 157 Wh
Weight: 2.25 lbs
Chemistry: Lithium-Ion
Auxiliary output: USB-C Power Delivery
Chargers
SL8 Fast Charger*
One charger charges one Freefly SL8-Air battery at a time
Approximate charge time for one SL8-Air battery, from 0%: 90 mins
Input: 100 / 240 VAC
Output: 200 Watts
Supplied with North America power cable (NEMA 1-15 ungrounded, Type A)
Power cable is replaceable (IEC320 connector)
Designed and Assembled in USA
*Batteries and chargers needed for flight not included, sold separately.