Fotokite, a leading provider of tethered aerial awareness systems for public safety, today announced the launch of Fotokite Sigma+, the latest evolution of its proven tethered drone platform. Sigma+ builds on the reliability of the existing Sigma system with enhanced GPS performance, upgraded flight and hardware features, and an optional IR+ 640 radiometric thermal camera for expanded operational visibility.

Designed for real-world emergency response, Sigma+ delivers continuous, hands-free aerial situational awareness without requiring a drone pilot. The system launches and lands with a single button and operates autonomously using Fotokite’s active tether control, enabling flight even in GPS-degraded environments.

“Sigma+ represents the next step in our commitment to delivering the most reliable aerial awareness solutions for first responders,” said Chris Martorana, Marketing Director at Fotokite. “Built directly from feedback from our public safety partners operating in complex, high-risk environments, Sigma+ combines improved GPS performance, enhanced stability, and advanced thermal options to help teams gain critical aerial insight while staying focused on the mission.”

Enhanced Performance for Demanding Operations

Sigma+ introduces multiple performance and hardware upgrades designed to improve stability, accuracy, and durability during extended operations:

• Improved GPS performance with increased satellite connection volume, optimized for urban and GPS-challenged environments
• Up to 24 hours of continuous flight, enabling uninterrupted situational awareness
• Optimized thrust distribution for greater stability and improved high-altitude performance
• Redesigned gimbal, refined carbon frame, stronger tether components, and safer batteries
• IP55 weather rating, allowing operation in rain, snow, and wind

The system can operate at heights of up to 45 meters and does not require piloting or manual flight control in many markets, including the United States.

Advanced Thermal Imaging Options

Sigma+ is available with two radiometric thermal camera configurations to meet different operational needs:

• 320 Thermal Camera — Radiometric thermal resolution of 320 × 240, measuring absolute temperatures from −40°C to 400°C
• IR+ 640 Thermal Camera — Radiometric thermal resolution of 640 × 480 with 8× zoom and twice the field of view, providing enhanced visibility for complex incidents

Both configurations are paired with a 12 MP low-light RGB camera offering up to 32× zoom and full HD video streaming.

Flexible Deployment and Connectivity

Sigma+ supports multiple deployment configurations, including a vehicle-mounted Rooftop Box for immediate response and a Transport Case for flexible deployment across multiple vehicles. Live video can be streamed locally via Ethernet or encrypted Wi-Fi, or remotely using the system’s integrated LTE modem, enabling off-site command and mutual aid coordination.

Availability and Webinar

Fotokite Sigma+ is available now. To learn more about the system’s new capabilities and operational use cases, Fotokite will host a live webinar later this month. Registration details will be announced shortly.

For more information view on YouTube or to request a demonstration, visit www.fotokite.com.

About Fotokite

Fotokite is a leading provider of tethered aerial awareness solutions for public safety and emergency response. Designed for simplicity, reliability, and compliance, Fotokite systems deliver persistent, real-time aerial insight without requiring a trained drone pilot, helping teams operate more safely and effectively in critical situations.