Drone Rescue Systems GmbH DRS-5R V2

The DRS-5R V2 from Drone Rescue Systems (Austria) is a universal, reusable parachute recovery system for light to medium multicopters of 2 to 5 kg. The canopy is ejected by an electrically triggered catapult, with no pyrotechnics and no CO2. It is controlled through MAVLink, PWM or a customer-specific interface; geofencing and release from a remote control are optional.

The parachute is rated up to 5 kg take-off weight. Depending on load the sink rate is between 2.5 and 3.6 m/s and the impact energy between 11 and 33 J; the rated value of 3.6 m/s applies to the full load of 5 kg. The manufacturer describes the opening as taking place within 15 to 25 m, which is an opening distance and not a guaranteed minimum deployment altitude. The system weighs 270 g and measures 110 x 100 mm; on a 2 kg aircraft, 270 g make up a noticeable part of the take-off weight.

The manufacturer calls the system eligible for testing to ASTM F3322 and EASA MoC Light-UAS.2511 and 2512; that is a testing status and not an issued evidence of compliance. For flights over people or in certain scenarios of the Specific category, the evidence for the own aircraft is what counts. Depending on mass, aircraft of 2 to 5 kg lie below or above the 4 kg limit of EU class C2; here too the added weight counts towards take-off weight.

The catapult is electric and uses up no propellant charge, so the kit can be used again after a deployment: check canopy and lines, look for tears, chafing and moisture, repack as the manufacturer specifies. For selection, the real take-off weight including payload counts; above 5 kg, sink rate and energy lie beyond the design. Anyone using geofencing or release from a remote control tests both on the ground before the first flight.