DroneOD, a UK start-up developing universal connectivity solutions for unmanned aerial systems, has joined Space Park Leicester at its £100 million state-of-the-art facility to accelerate development of cross-platform drone technologies.
Universal Device for All Drone Types
Founded in 2025, DroneOD is building a compact, rugged device designed to enable secure communication across all drone platforms. The global navigation satellite systems (GNSS)-enabled hardware delivers real-time tracking, geofencing, autonomous control and fleet analytics—addressing the needs of more than 18,000 registered drone operators in the UK.
Unlike existing solutions tied to specific manufacturers, DroneOD’s device automatically detects and configures to multiple drone protocols, making it the first true cross-platform Internet of Things (IoT) controller for drones.
The company has secured Innovate UK funding for a six-month project to produce certified, commercial-grade prototypes for both its zipx1 (IoT) and zipx2 (Quantum Key Distribution QKD) devices.
Collaboration Drives Cross-Platform Drone Technologies Forward
By joining the University of Leicester’s hub of UK space innovation, DroneOD aims to accelerate development, validation and commercial adoption within a realistic, connected environment. The move enables collaboration with researchers, fellow drone companies and service providers at a facility that includes partners such as Rolls Royce, Airbus, Earth Sense and UKSA.
Lanval Ogarro, Founder of DroneOD, said: “Space Park Leicester is the ideal base for DroneOD because its location, cutting-edge facilities and expert community remove barriers to innovation in the drone and aerospace sector. The space industry spans many domains – including critical positioning, navigation and timing for air and aerospace – and DroneOD is leveraging Space Park Leicester’s unique environment to develop advanced connectivity technologies for next-generation drones.”
Vinay Patel, Head of Commercial and Innovation at Space Park Leicester, commented: “Having DroneOD join us brings new energy to our hub, and we look forward to seeing how its work in cross-platform drone technologies inspires and accelerates developments across the entire aerospace ecosystem.”
More information about Space Hub Leicester is available from their website.
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Ian McNabb is a journalist focusing on drone technology and lifestyle content at Dronelife. He is based between Boston and NH and, when not writing, enjoys hiking and Boston area sports.