Parrot’s CHUCK 3.0 Autopilot Powers Up Drone Innovation at Paris Air Show

French drone pioneer Parrot made waves at the Paris Air Show with the launch of CHUCK 3.0, a versatile AI autopilot module that transforms any drone into a high-performance, secure platform. Designed for manufacturers and government users, this compact unit delivers advanced navigation, imaging, and jam-resistant communication, even in GPS-denied environments.

Cutting-Edge Features for Any Drone

CHUCK 3.0 is a game-changer for drone makers, integrating seamlessly with quadcopters, fixed-wing, VTOL, or hybrid UAVs. Weighing under 1 pound (sub-1 kg), it combines AI-driven autonomy, a three-axis stabilized gimbal, and a spoof-proof MARS (Multi-band Anti-jam Radio System) radio suite.

Its optical navigation uses stereo cameras and visual-inertial odometry to guide drones through GPS-denied zones, recognizing ground patterns for precise positioning. The system dodges obstacles in real-time, even in low-light conditions, with compatibility for Parrot’s NIGHTVISION module for pitch-black operations.

Parrot’s Chuck 3.0 Autopilot Powers Up Drone Innovation At Paris Air Show 2

The imaging system shines with a 35x optical-zoom camera capturing 4K video and 21-megapixel photos (84° FOV wide, 75.2° rectilinear). A FLIR Boson 640×512 thermal sensor detects heat signatures from -40°F to 482°F (-40°C to 250°C), ideal for night surveillance or inspections.

The gimbal’s hybrid stabilization (mechanical and electronic) ensures sharp footage, with a tilt range of -90° to +90°. CHUCK 3.0’s radio suite supports 5G, MARS frequency-hopping across 1.8–5 GHz, and encrypted LoRa backup, streaming 1080p video at 30 fps with AES-256 encryption. An “autopilot-only” option lets users pair it with existing RF links.

The module’s sensors include four 6-axis IMUs, a barometer, magnetometer, and front/bottom stereo cameras, plus a vertical range sensor. It supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou when available, with 512GB internal storage and ports for USB-C, Ethernet, and MicroSD. Tested to MIL-STD-461G and IP5X/IPX3 standards, it operates from -40°F to 158°F (-40°C to 70°C), ready for deserts or arctic missions.

“Current conflicts show that secure, high-performance UAVs must be fielded not only faster in R&D but also at industrial scale,” said Henri Seydoux, Founder and CEO of Parrot. “CHUCK 3.0 answers that need. It packs fifteen years of Parrot experience into one module, trims development time to a few months and removes any reliance on Chinese components.”

Security and Sovereignty at the Core

CHUCK 3.0 prioritizes cybersecurity for defense and government use. With no Chinese components, it meets NDAA and Blue UAS standards, ensuring supply chain TRUST. Data stays secure with AES-256 encryption, digitally signed firmware, and FIPS140-2 compliance. Operators can disable MARS and LoRa radios for silent mode, minimizing detection by enemy sensors. The open-source SDK, FreeFlight 8 app, and Sphinx simulator allow custom mission programming and virtual training, giving users full control over sensitive operations.

Transforming Drone Development

For manufacturers, CHUCK 3.0 slashes development time from years to months, embedding Parrot’s expertise into a plug-and-play module. Its versatility supports diverse applications, from military reconnaissance to infrastructure inspections. The MARS RANGER antenna kit extends secure control for long-range missions, while multi-payload ports accommodate custom sensors. Drone makers can now deliver rugged, compliant UAVs faster, meeting the rising demand for secure systems in conflict zones and public safety.

Industry Trends and Strategic Impact

Parrot’s comeback aligns with a shift toward non-Chinese drone tech, driven by U.S. and EU regulations like NDAA. With 2024 revenue of $84.2 million (€78 million), Parrot serves over 50 Countries, and CHUCK 3.0 positions it to capture the growing market for sovereign UAVs. Unlike the consumer-focused AR.Drone of the 2010s, this module targets professional and defense sectors, where jamming and cyber threats are routine. Its open SDK fosters innovation, but high costs—likely exceeding $10,000 based on similar systems—may limit it to well-funded clients, leaving hobbyists waiting for trickle-down tech.

The launch reflects broader industry fragmentation, with many manufacturers relying on insecure, off-the-shelf parts. CHUCK 3.0 offers a standardized, secure alternative, potentially reshaping how small UAVs are built. Regulatory hurdles, like FAA restrictions on drones above 400 feet, may challenge adoption, but Parrot’s compliance focus eases government approvals.

Availability and Next Steps

CHUCK 3.0 is in production, with orders open for manufacturers and agencies via Parrot’s website, where technical specs and visuals are available. As Parrot leverages its U.S. and South Korean manufacturing, CHUCK 3.0 could redefine secure drone development, proving the French firm is back with a vengeance.

Photos courtesy of Parrot.