Choctaw Nation Utilizes Botlink’s XRD2 for BVLOS Drone Ops Over Cell Network
Choctaw utilized the XRD2 as the cellular component for FAA sanctioned, BVLOS operations
Fargo, ND, August 10th, 2023: Botlink, the developer of the XRD2 cellular drone communication device, is proud to announce its inclusion in the Choctaw Nation’s beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) waiver, as well as their continued BVLOS operations in the Choctaw Nation Reservation.
“The Botlink team put in thousands of hours developing the XRD2, and receiving positive feedback on ease of use and high-reliability connection from partners like the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO), means all those hours paid off,” said Matt Sather, general manager of Botlink. “We’re excited to continue to build our relationship with CNO, as well as the entire Oklahoma region, which has shown a strong commitment to utilizing cellular networks for drone C2”, continued Sather.
The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was awarded a unique BVLOS waiver without visual observers by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in January 2023. The FAA BVLOS waiver is instrumental in advancing drone utilization and enables partners to conduct testing and demonstrations in southeast Oklahoma.
“The Botlink XRD2 is an integral part of Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma's beyond visual line of sight flight operations,” said senior manager of aviation operations Marcus Hartman. “In addition to the reliable command and control link over LTE, the XRD2 gives us the ability to maintain situational awareness BVLOS through the added video link at a much greater range than any other available video equipment.”
The XRD2 is the only US designed, developed, and assembled cellular hardware and software product specifically for drones, and it has enabled BVLOS operations on four different continents since the first iteration in 2016. Fully compliant with Section 889 of the NDAA, the XRD2 is designed for maximum communication security, while being the easiest to integrate and operate cellular connectivity device on the market.
About Botlink - Botlink was founded in Fargo, N.D. by military pilots and engineers with the intent to share the benefits of drones safely. Botlink is a drone software and hardware development company leading the LTE communication technology market. Botlink also provides automated drone control and safety features allowing operators to remain safe and compliant with complex flight regulations. For more information visit: https://botlink.com/
About the Choctaw Nation - The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 220,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 13,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to https://www.choctawnation.com/.