Open Conceptual Design of a Multi-Mission Tactical Quadcopter Using COTS Components

This paper presents an open conceptual design of a multi-mission tactical quadcopter addressing payload limitations in existing commercial loitering munitions. Using Components-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components, the design achieves 400–600 g payload capacity – a 120 % increase over commercial alternatives – enabling compatibility with standard military ordnance such as the Indonesian GT5-PEA2 defensive grenade (430 g). The modular design supports three mission profiles: ISR, payload delivery, and kamikaze operations, with a foldable configuration stowing within 180 mm for infantry portability. The ISR configuration achieves 30 min endurance and 6 790 m range. Unit production cost of 774 USD represents a 68% reduction versus commercial alternatives. Complete design documentation is publicly available to accelerate collaborative development.