Mobile Command Post for Drone Operations: Fully Autonomous and Ready for Any Mission
The Galicia Technology Institute (ITG) has a revolutionary mobile command post for managing and executing drone operations in a wide variety of environments. This advanced vehicle, built by the Spanish company Vankings, is designed for rapid deployment and maximum operational efficiency. Equipped with the latest technologies in communication, monitoring and energy management, it offers full autonomy during missions. A reliable and powerful energy system is crucial for this. That is why Vankings chose an OctoPower installation, allowing all essential systems to operate without grid power for a full workday.
The Project: Fully Self-Sufficient Drone Control Center
The Galicia Technology Institute (ITG) is a leading technology center in Spain, specializing in innovation in automation, robotics and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The institute plays a key role in the development of Urban Air Mobility and advanced drone systems, collaborating with European institutions and aviation authorities on the integration of drones into airspace. For their research and operational missions, ITG required a fully autonomous mobile command post that can be deployed anywhere. This vehicle needed to serve not only as a control center for air traffic management and drone operations but also be equipped with advanced communication, monitoring and power supply systems.
Key Requirements for the Vehicle
- Fully autonomous operation without grid power, enabling missions anywhere
- Powerful and stable power supply for communication systems, weather equipment and drone software
- Compact and efficient design with optimal space utilization for workstations and equipment
- Rapid deployment with plug-and-play functionality for emergencies and test environments
- Robust and secure construction for long-term use under various weather conditions and terrains
Vankings Transforms Complex Requirements Into a Practical Solution
To translate these complex requirements into a practical solution, ITG leveraged the expertise of Vankings. This renowned company specializes in building expedition and operational vehicles. They are industry leaders in both Spain and internationally, known for their detailed designs and high-quality finishes. For ITG, Vankings developed a Mercedes Sprinter (6 × 2.8 m) as a mobile control center, fully tailored to the demands of drone operations. The vehicle is equipped with the latest technologies for rapid deployment and maximum operational efficiency. Inside, there is a ground control station (GCS) for flight and mission management, a workshop station for technical support, and a station for audiovisual systems for live video production and broadcasting. Additionally, the vehicle features various communication systems and monitoring equipment for real-time environmental analysis.
Equipment and Functionality Overview
- Advanced communication systems (5G, radio, and audiovisual) for stable connections
- Weather station for real-time meteorological data and environmental analysis
- Ground control station (GCS) with two workstations and integrated monitoring and control systems
- Workshop and storage space for equipment, maintenance, and mission necessities
- Audiovisual management station with recording, editing, and live broadcasting capabilities
- Modular interior for maximum flexibility and future expansions
- Rapid deployment and operational efficiency for immediate drone missions in any environment
Autonomous Power System Keeps Systems Running for a Full Workday
To enable the mobile control center to operate fully independently, a reliable and efficient power supply was required. Vankings therefore chose a WhisperPower OctoPower system, a compact and modular solution that optimally utilizes the available space while ensuring a stable power supply. The system consists of four 12 V – 150 A lithium batteries (7.6 kWh) for long-term energy storage, a Suntrack Duo 12 V – 50 A for efficient charging management, and a Combi Supreme 12 V – 80 A 2000 W, providing the necessary voltage and power for all onboard equipment. Additionally, an intelligent shunt, battery switch, and distribution systems are integrated to optimize energy management. Thanks to this setup, all systems, including communication networks, monitoring equipment, and audiovisual technology, can operate for approximately one full workday without grid power.
The Result: An Advanced and Flexible Control Center
With the delivery of the mobile control center, ITG now has a fully equipped and energy-independent command post, ready for deployment in various operational environments. Thanks to the integrated communication systems, real-time monitoring, and a powerful power supply, drone operations can be carried out more efficiently and flexibly. The modular design allows ITG to further expand the vehicle in the future with new technologies and functionalities. The combination of Vankings’ customization and the reliable WhisperPower system has resulted in a sustainable and practical solution, enabling ITG to conduct its research and operational missions at the highest level.
