DJI Mavic 4 Pro Released, AVSS Matrice 4 Parachute, LEDA Utah, New Mexico Drones for Good

Welcome to your weekly UAS news update. We have four stories this week. First, the long-awaited DJI Mavic 4 Pro has finally been released. Next, AVSS has completed ASTM compliance for their parachute system. We also cover a drone training event hosted by LITA in Ogden, Utah. Finally, we explore a compelling “Drones for Good” story from New Mexico. Let’s dive in.

DJI Mavic 4 Pro Unveiled

DJI has officially revealed the Mavic 4 Pro, a highly anticipated drone with impressive specifications. Likely the most leaked DJI product ever, the Mavic 4 Pro’s standout feature is its triple-camera system. The main camera boasts a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad sensor with a remarkable 100-megapixel resolution. It includes 28mm, 70mm, and 168mm lenses for exceptional versatility. The main camera supports Hasselblad’s Natural Color Solution with a dynamic aperture of f/2.0 to f/11. The 70mm medium telephoto lens features a 48-megapixel 1/1.3-inch sensor, while the 168mm telephoto lens has a 50-megapixel 1/1.5-inch sensor.

For videographers, the main camera records 6K 60 fps HDR video with 16 stops of dynamic range. The medium and telephoto cameras support 4K 60 fps HDR. A unique 360-degree infinity gimbal allows full rotation and up to 70 degrees of upward tilt, promising creative shooting possibilities. Flight time is rated at 51 minutes, with a top speed of 56 mph. The O4 Plus transmission system extends the range to 18 miles (30 km).

The new DJI RC Pro 2 controller features a 7-inch mini-LED display, 4-hour runtime, 128 GB of storage, and DJI Mic compatibility. It is backward compatible with drones like the Air 3S, Air 3, and Mini 4 Pro. However, the Mavic 4 Pro is not currently available in the U.S. market. DJI stated that evolving local conditions and industry environments have prompted a strategic adjustment. While no timeline for U.S. availability was provided, retailers like B&H and Adorama are listing the drone for sale. More thoughts on this will be shared in our Postflight discussion.

AVSS Achieves ASTM Compliance for Matrice 4 Parachute

AVSS, a Canada-based aerial vehicle safety solutions provider, has successfully completed ASTM F3322-24A compliance testing for their PRS-M4S parachute system, designed for the Matrice 4 series. This system enables Category 2 flight over people and is expected to be listed on the FAA’s Declaration of Compliance page later this month. AVSS dominates the Category 2 system market, and this addition strengthens their portfolio.

The PRS-M4S includes an Automatic Triggering System (ATS) or Manual Triggering Device (MTD). Priced at $1,700, AVSS is now accepting orders, with deliveries expected in June 2025. For U.S. customers, the system is CUSMA-compliant and currently exempt from tariffs, though policies may change. This is a significant development for enterprise operators using the Matrice 4.

Drone Training Event in Ogden, Utah

Over 250 public safety professionals gathered in Ogden, Utah, for a week-long drone training event on May 5, hosted by the Weber County Sheriff’s Office and the Law Enforcement Drone Association (LITA). LITA, a leading advocacy group for public safety and law enforcement, facilitates networking and knowledge-sharing among agencies. The training focused on Search and Rescue in Utah’s rugged terrain, SWAT support, crash scene reconstruction, disaster mapping, and the Legal framework for drone use. This event highlights the public safety community’s commitment to collaboration and skill development.

Drones for Good: New Mexico Incident

In a serious yet impactful “Drones for Good” story, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office in New Mexico released drone and body camera footage from a February incident involving two brothers, aged seven and nine, handling a loaded gun. Deputies deployed a drone to gain a critical vantage point, allowing real-time assessment from a safe distance. Sheriff John Allen reported that one boy raised the gun and pulled the trigger, but the weapon malfunctioned. The drone footage enabled deputies to communicate with the boys and use a non-lethal round to distract them, safely securing the weapon and the children.

The sheriff credited the drone program with de-escalating the situation and preventing a worse outcome. No charges were filed against the children; instead, authorities are providing the family with trauma therapy, medical services, and behavioral support. This case underscores the value of drones for situational awareness and de-escalation in complex scenarios involving juvenile crime, mental health, and public safety.

Join the Discussion

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