Abstract: A modular VTOL drone aircraft can include a primary processor, a plurality of propellers, one or more line replacement modules (“LRMs”) and one or more line replacement units (“LRUs”). LRMs can include a fuselage, a center wing, two booms, two outer wings, two vertical tails, a horizontal tail, and/or an engine. LRUs can include an avionics module, a radio communications assembly, a sensor package assembly, an ISR assembly, and/or a deployable payload assembly. Each LRM and LRU can be self-contained and removably attached to the remainder of the VTOL drone. Each LRM can be readily interchanged with another similar LRM, which can be of a different size. LRM interfaces can include a blind mate electric connector and/or a floating connector.

Abstract: A dual use UAV or “drone” can include a battery and primary processor located at a fuselage, as well as two separate modular units removably coupled to the fuselage and in communication with the primary processor. The two separate modular units can interact with each other to provide an enhanced operation while the drone is in flight. One modular unit can be an ISR unit having a video camera, and the other modular unit can be a cargo unit. The enhanced operation can involve the ISR unit using its video camera to identify a delivery location for a cargo pod of the cargo unit. Alternative modular units can include a secondary ISR unit, a cargo fuel pod unit, or a robotic arm assembly. Standardized interfaces coupled to the fuselage can enable the ready removal of one modular unit and installation of another one.