uAvionix has acquired Iris Automation, combining two leading solutions enabling advanced UAS operations. Jon Damus, formerly CEO of Iris Automation, has been named CEO of uAvionix.
uAvionix is a leader in communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) solutions. Iris Automation™ is a leading provider of optical Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology, both onboard and ground-based. As the FAA moves to issue more waivers for flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), DAA solutions can be critical components of a technology solution that meets the FAA’s safety criteria. The two companies recently announced an innovative integration of uAvionix command and control (C2) with Iris’ DAA technology. Now, the acquisition will further enable the two companies to leverage their technologies to create a valuable commercial offering. “This strategic move combines uAvionix’s extensive CNS and aviation expertise with Iris’ leadership in computer vision-based systems for the safe separation of aircraft,” says the press release.
“The combination of Iris Automation’s and uAvionix’s capabilities provides for a multi-layered-safety architecture that supports integration of UAS into the National Airspace System,” noted Paul Beard, CTO and founder of uAvionix. “Through our collective efforts, we are solving the two biggest technical challenges to UAS integration: Command and Control and Detect and Avoid. Solving these problems builds safer airspace for all users.”
Jon Damush Assumes
Role of CEO of uAvionix Corporation
Jon Damush is a drone industry veteran, coming to Iris Automation from Insitu and Boeing. Now, says the press release: “Jon Damush expands the current uAvionix leadership team and brings more than 30 years of aviation technology experience. His extensive background in engineering for crewed and uncrewed aviation, software development, and systems integration positions him as a visionary leader to guide uAvionix’s growth across diverse markets, including General Aviation, Uncrewed Aviation, Defense, and Aviation Networks.”
“Jon Damush’s appointment as CEO hits all the right marks for uAvionix. His exceptional background and vision complement an already strong leadership team at uAvionix and aligns perfectly with the uAvionix mission to lead the way in advancing aviation safety and efficiency,” said David Page, Partner at DC Capital Partners. “The addition of Iris’ optical capabilities with existing uAvionix solutions further cements our market position within BVLOS operations.”
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