Botlink XRD2 Powers Historic 80-Mile Medical Drone Delivery Over Verizon Cellular Network
FARGO, N.D. — In a landmark demonstration for the future of rural healthcare logistics, Botlink is proud to announce its role in the Rural Reach demonstration project, a successful long-range medical drone delivery trial conducted in partnership with the University of North Dakota’s (UND) Center for Innovation.
The mission, which utilized a Supervolo operated by the iSight team, autonomously transported critical medical supplies 80 miles from Williston to Watford City, N.D., was made possible by the Botlink XRD2. The flight was executed entirely beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), relying exclusively on the Botlink XRD2 device for all command and control (C2), real-time video data, and Vantis telemetry connectivity.
While traditional drone operations are limited by the range of direct radio links, this trial demonstrated the power of exisitng cellular infastructure to fly BVLOS drone operations. Equipped with the Botlink XRD2, the aircraft maintained a reliable, low-latency connection throughout the entire 35-minute flight, proving that cellular connectivity is the key to unlocking scalable, long-distance drone operations.
Key Highlights of the Mission:
Unbroken Connectivity: The Botlink XRD2 maintained a continuous link over the Verizon network across 80 miles of prairie, demonstrating the reliability required for life-saving logistics.
True BVLOS Operations: Pilots commanded the drone and monitored live video feeds from a remote location, with no need for visual observers along the route.
Speed and Efficiency: The flight reduced a standard 90-minute ground transport trip to just over 35 minutes, ensuring time-sensitive medical supplies reached McKenzie Health faster than ever before.
The trial was a collaborative effort involving the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, Vantis, iSight Drone Services, and McKenzie Health. It serves as a validation of North Dakota’s Vantis network and the robustness of commercial cellular infrastructure for complex aerospace applications.
