Freefly Astro Max Aircraft (NDAA/Blue)
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
Specifications:
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
What's in the Box:
1 x Astro Max (with folding landing gear, high efficiency props, and Astro Isolator)*
1 x Astro compact travel case
1 x each hex driver (1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm)
4 x Proptectors
Spare parts:
1 x Extra Proptector
4 x Spare isolator balls
2 x Rubber hole grommet
1 x Pilot Pro controller
1 x Samsung Active Tab (pre-configured and installed into controller)
1 x Herelink 1.1 RF (2.4 GHz)
1 x Custom padded neck strap
