Top inertial navigation systems for UAVs

An inertial navigation system (INS) is a critical component for ensuring stable UAV operation, especially when GNSS signals are weak or completely unavailable. GNSS disruptions are a common challenge for drone operators, caused by urban canyons, dense vegetation, electromagnetic interference, or intentional jamming. Such conditions can lead to signal loss and potentially costly UAV mishaps.
However, technological advances in sensor integration and artificial intelligence (AI) have revolutionized inertial navigation for UAV. Modern systems now enable drones to operate autonomously in complex environments, even in GPS-denied scenarios. Below, we explore four cutting-edge inertial navigation systems tailored for UAVs.
Bavovna H-INS
The Bavovna AI navigation kit is compatible with multi-rotor, VTOL, and fixed-wing drones. It features a low-SWAP design, integrating an AI-powered flight control system and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in a carbon-composite casing with EMI shielding. Optional SIGINT RF modules enhance electromagnetic threat protection.
Field tests show Bavovna achieves a deviation of just 0.85 meters in single-point positioning without GPS, RTK, or optical systems, even at altitudes of 500 meters and wind speeds of 18 m/s. Its proprietary AI-driven sensor fusion algorithm processes barometric pressure, gyroscopic readings, magnetometer input, and airflow vectors, enabling precise positioning and situational awareness. The system is customizable with 100 hours of flight data for specific airframes.
Bavovna supports supplementary tools like lidar or computer vision, enabling SLAM for terrain mapping or object detection. Its hybrid design ensures an endpoint positioning error (EPPE) under 0.5% over 30 kilometers.
Key Advantages
- Fully autonomous operation without external signals.
- AI-based sensor fusion tailored to UAV configurations.
- Modular, low-power design with enhanced EMI protection.
Other Systems
The George autopilot by uAvionix offers reliable DAL-C hardware and CubePilot architecture. It integrates detect-and-avoid (DAA) capabilities but lacks AI-driven situational awareness.
The Spatial FOG Dual by Advanced Navigation combines fiber optic gyros (FOGs) with dual-antenna RTK GNSS for up to 8 mm accuracy and extended GNSS-denied operation.
The Honeywell Compact INS offers lightweight precision with RTK capabilities but lacks AI-based autonomy.
Each system suits different UAV needs. Bavovna excels in adaptability and AI-based navigation, while others focus on hardware precision and modularity.