At Motorola Solutions, we recognize the challenges public safety agencies face with selecting drone hardware for UAV operations. Finding solutions that are secure, reliable, versatile and affordable can be difficult, especially with the ever-changing legislative and regulatory environment.
Expanding integrations to meet evolving needs
Our CAPE drone software team is committed to providing agencies with choice by thoroughly vetting and integrating with leading drone manufacturers to deliver a complete solution that meets your current and future needs.
We recently announced a new integration between Motorola Solutions’ CAPE software and the Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat drone hardware, a powerful combination that simplifies operations, streamlines procurement, and provides long-term compatibility with evolving regulations and technology.
We’re excited to expand those hardware options with another valuable integration: the US-manufactured Trace nano drone from Vantage Robotics. This pocket-sized marvel delivers capabilities comparable to much larger drones, enabling significant advancements in situational awareness, reconnaissance and evidence collection.
Introducing Trace: A small but mighty American-made solution
This nano drone redefines the possibilities for public safety. Imagine a device so compact that officers can effortlessly carry it in a trunk, backpack or saddlebag, ready for immediate deployment. Despite its tiny size, the Trace drone boasts an impressive flight time exceeding 40 minutes.
Equipped with a gimbal-stabilized camera and powerful zoom, Trace captures high-quality images and videos, helping to deliver enhanced situational awareness. And because of its size, Trace helps reduce potential safety risks and property damage compared to larger drones, making it ideal for a wider range of deployments, both indoors and outdoors.
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) recently announced that Vantage Robotic’s Trace drone is among 23 unmanned aircraft systems selected for further review as part of the Blue UAS list refresh. Following a successful flight demonstration at the Blue UAS Challenge in February 2025, the Trace drone will now undergo a comprehensive cybersecurity review. This selection demonstrates Trace’s progression towards meeting the stringent requirements for government use. DIU’s review and publication of its refreshed Blue UAS list is expected later this year.
CAPE integration for enhanced operational efficiency
The seamless integration of Trace with CAPE drone software unlocks even greater potential for public safety agencies. When connected to the drone, CAPE streamlines tactical operations through:
- Automated flight planning for effortless execution of complex flight paths and precise drone movements.
- Capture and management of mission-critical data within the robust CAPE ecosystem.
- Real-time control and monitoring of drone operations for efficient mission management, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making.
These CAPE functionalities, when combined with the Trace drone’s capabilities, create a truly powerful and integrated solution for modern public safety operations.
A powerful combination for the future of public safety
The CAPE and Trace integration represents a significant step forward in drone technology for public safety. This powerful combination provides agencies with enhanced situational awareness, improved tactical capabilities and greater flexibility in their drone deployments.
See the CAPE and Trace integration in action! Join us at the Motorola Solutions Summit, May 13-15 in Grapevine, TX, where the CAPE team will showcase the Trace nano drone, along with the IF800 and Nokia’s new Drone in a Box integration. Get a sneak peek at future integrations at Summit 2025.
