Drone specialist company RocketDNA has achieved a “groundbreaking milestone” as the first company in South Africa and Australia to secure approval for remote unmanned aerial system (UAS) docking operations from the civil aviation authorities.

This approval, granted for its xBot, cements RocketDNA's position as a leader in cutting-edge drone solutions for industries such as mining, construction, security and engineering.

“Our xBot allows pilots to remotely operate multiple drones across vast distances,” says RocketDNA MD Camron Pfafferott.

“Picture a pilot launching five separate drone missions from an air-conditioned room, seamlessly covering operations hundreds of kilometres apart – all while sipping an espresso,” he says.

The xBot is designed to elevate operational efficiency, delivering faster results, improving safety and offering unparalleled data accuracy. Equipped with AI-powered analytics and advanced automation, it ensures industries can achieve more with fewer resources.

Versatility and Innovation

RocketDNA’s xBot has proven its “unmatched versatility and reliability” across multiple industries and commodities in South Africa. From security and surveillance to mining, the xBot has “transformed” the way mining operations are conducted. Its ability to adapt to a wide range of tasks makes it an “indispensable” tool for the modern mining sector.

Having completed over 15 000 flights, the xBot is a “tried-and-tested solution”, delivering consistent results for some of the largest mining groups in South Africa. Its deployment has transformed operations by enabling precise, real-time data collection for critical applications.

These include drill and blast operations for executing pre- and post-blast surveys with precision; survey flights for generating highly accurate digital terrain models and stockpile measurements; and panoramic imaging for creating comprehensive panoramic views for site management and decision-making.

Additionally, mining operations can also use thermal inspections to identify equipment overheating or potential hazards with high-resolution thermal imaging.

Further, monitoring solutions are also on offer from the xBot, including asset-, progress- and security monitoring.

One of the xBot’s “standout” features is its ability to live stream operations, delivering real-time visuals directly from the pit to the boardroom. This capability empowers decision-makers to make informed choices without delays, embodying the mantra: “Bring your pit to your boardroom live.”

The xBot's flexibility and automation allow mining clients to conduct multiple tasks with a single system, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution. By streamlining critical operations and enhancing safety, the xBot is setting a new standard in drone technology for South Africa’s mining sector and beyond.

Looking to the Future

As a training provider authorised by the South African Civil Aviation Authority, RocketDNA is not only leading the way in drone technology but also in empowering the next generation of drone operators.

The company offers customised training programmes tailored to industry-specific needs, helping individuals and businesses unlock the potential of unmanned systems.

“Obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate through RocketDNA opens doors to employment opportunities in diverse fields, from data analytics and quality to software development and flight operations,” notes Pfafferott.

The training is as diverse as the xBot’s capabilities. Whether it’s monitoring mining blasts, optimising crop yields, or capturing aerial footage, RocketDNA ensures pilots are equipped with both technical skills and real-world context to excel in their roles.

Pfafferott emphasises that South Africa is at the forefront of the global shift toward remote drone operations, with RocketDNA leading the charge. The RocketDNA “fly days” offer businesses a firsthand look at the capabilities of the xBot, demonstrating how it addresses challenges such as operational inefficiencies, safety concerns and data collection bottlenecks.

“Interest from local and international companies to learn from and collaborate with us is growing rapidly,” Pfafferott says. “This is more than just technology – it’s about empowering industries to unlock their potential and [build] a stronger drone ecosystem in South Africa.”

With its “first-of-its-kind” approval and a track record of delivering results, the xBot is a “game-changer”.

By combining advanced automation, AI and “unparalleled” versatility, RocketDNA is setting a new standard for drone operations.

“From mining and construction to security and agriculture, the xBot is proving that the future of remote operations is here, and RocketDNA is leading the way.”