UAV · Experimental flapping-wing nano UAV
Nano Hummingbird
USA
The AeroVironment Nano Hummingbird is a DARPA-funded flapping-wing nano air vehicle prototype, shaped like a hummingbird, that hovers and flies forward on its flapping wings while carrying a tiny video camera. A 2011 technology demonstrator, not a fielded system.
| Country | USA |
|---|---|
| Subcategory | Nano / Micro |
| Subtype | Experimental flapping-wing nano UAV |
| Role | Research/demonstration ISR |
| Class | Nano UAV |
| Classification | Nano UAV (experimental) |
| Mission | ISR (demonstration), surveillance research |
| Datalink | Video downlink |
| Variants | Nano Hummingbird |
| MTOW (kg) | 0.019 |
| Operators | DARPA / AeroVironment (test) |
| Frame type | Fixed-wing |
| Propulsion | Electric motor driving flapping wings, battery |
| Wingspan (m) | 0.16 |
| Combat-proven | No |
| Export status | Not exported (prototype) |
| Launch method | Hand launch / hover takeoff |
| Autonomy level | Remotely piloted (experimental) |
| Endurance (min) | 11 |
| Recovery method | Hand recovery |
| Year introduced | 2011 |
| Max speed (km/h) | 18 |
| Standard sensors | miniature video camera |
| Production status | Prototype / technology demonstrator |
| Airframe / lift type | Ornithopter / novel |
| Control / autonomy level | RC line-of-sight – VLOS |
| Domain | Aerial (UAV/UAS) |
| Mission / use case – civil | Research |
| Mission / use case – military | ISR |
| Origin / supply chain | Military-grade |
| Propulsion | Electric (LiPo / Li-ion) |
| Range / endurance | Very close range (<5 km, <1 hr) |
| Signature / detectability | RCS – nano/micro (<0.01 m²), RF-emitting |
| Speed regime | Low (<50 km/h) |
| Threat vector | Surveillance / reconnaissance |
| Weight / class | Class I – Micro (<2 kg), FAA <250 g |
Review-stage catalogue data — specs corroborated from manufacturer and secondary sources; not for procurement decisions. Source: www.avinc.com