A New “Robotic Arm” Revolutionizes Launch-and-Recovery for Military Drones

A Connecticut-based firm is redefining how frontline units deploy drones with a new system that allows troops to launch and retrieve UAVs without ever stepping into the line of fire.

Target Arm’s Robotic Arm Launch and Recovery system — RALAR — is a mobile, vehicle-mounted alternative to fixed launchers. Extending outward from a moving truck, MRAP, robot, or even an aircraft, the arm can send drones into flight or catch them mid-air, enabling continuous operations while on the move.

At the heart of RALAR is precision navigation technology from Colorado’s Trimble Inc., which synchronizes the arm to the vehicle’s speed and motion. This allows for accurate, mid-movement drone recovery — a challenge traditional stationary systems can’t solve.

Because the system is platform-agnostic, it can be mounted across tactical vehicles, ground robots, and aircraft with minimal modification. Target Arm describes RALAR as a major leap forward, building on its earlier Tular system to free operators from risky manual launches and recoveries.

The tactical implications are significant. Convoys can launch reconnaissance drones the moment danger approaches, gaining instant visibility without exposing soldiers. Civilian agencies — from fire departments to emergency response teams — can also use the system to deploy drones safely in hazardous environments.

“This is a new era of drone mobility,” said CEO Jeff McChesney. “Drones follow and find you — not the other way around.”