AERODYNAMIC_ENDURANCE_LOG

In the Specter-Hive, we prioritize fixed-wing airframes for long-range sorties. A quadcopter is an "Active Lift" machine—it must push air down just to stay alive. A fixed-wing is a "Passive Lift" machine—it uses its shape to float.

THE EFFICIENCY GAP

QUADCOPTER CHARACTERISTICS

Lift-to-Drag Ratio: ~1:1 (Thrust must equal Weight).
Current Draw: 25A - 40A constant.
Flight Time: 20-35 minutes on a standard LiPo.

SPECTER FIXED-WING CHARACTERISTICS

Lift-to-Drag Ratio: ~15:1 to 20:1 (1lb of thrust can move 20lbs of plane).
Current Draw: 3A - 6A during cruise.
Flight Time: 2-5 hours on a standard Li-Ion pack.

GLIDE_RATIO

"The Specter V2 has a glide ratio of 18:1. This means if the motor fails at 1,000 feet of altitude, the drone can glide forward for 18,000 feet (over 3 miles) to find a safe landing spot."