Commercial, Unmanned

Boeing Invests in Drone Radar with Fortem

By NIck Zazulia | March 15, 2018
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Fortem’s TrueView radar technology for drones enticed Boeing to invest through its HorizonX Ventures subsidiary. Photo courtesy of Fortem Technology

Boeing is funding the development of advanced radar systems through its HorizonX subsidiary’s investment in Fortem Technologies.

Fortem Technologies offers airspace awareness solutions using radar that is low in size, weight and power to ensure safe operations of unmanned aerial systems. Fortem’s TrueView radar technology helps UAS detect and avoid other aircraft and airborne objects beyond visual line of sight — a key capability for future autonomous air vehicles.

“Radar technology is a necessary and trusted element as we continue to strengthen autonomy capabilities for a variety of commercial and urban mobility applications,” said Steve Nordlund, VP of Boeing HorizonX. “Safety is paramount in our approach to the responsible introduction of future air vehicles. Fortem’s radar systems will help as we pave the path to emerging markets of autonomous flight.”

Founded in May 2016, Utah-based Fortem has developed a suite of radar systems and radar-enabled product solutions to help unmanned aircraft and pilots safely operate in an increasingly crowded airspace. Its TrueView radar systems enable autonomous aircraft to perform various logistics applications, including cargo transport, package delivery and large infrastructure inspections.

Boeing HorizonX Ventures participated in this Series A funding round, which included follow-on investments by Data Collective and Signia Venture Partners. This is Boeing HorizonX Ventures’ second investment in autonomous systems technology since the fund was established in April 2017.

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