Our Projects

CASCADE (Complex Autonomous aircraft Systems Configuration, Analysis and Design Exploratory) is the largest UK research project focused on unmanned aircraft. It is a collaboration between the University of Southampton and four of the top universities in the field of unmanned systems.

The goal of CASCADE is to accelerate the exploitation of aerial robotics across a wide range of science and industry applications. Through fundamental research and case studies, CASCADE will advance the understanding and technologies required to allow routine operation of advanced aerial robotic systems. Common system architectures are being developed and employed together with their associated risk and reliability models.

The project combines research activities summarised in six thematic areas (Safety, Autonomy, Capability, Scalability, Agility, and Integration) with practical case studies demonstrations that meet the needs of current and emerging users of aerial robots linked to the CASCADE partnership. The project aims to shape the technological and regulatory standards upon which a safe, commercially and scientifically vibrant industry can grow.

CASCADE is funded by the EPSRC. Individual case studies benefit from the additional support of industrial sponsors.