Which type of sUAS is optimal when powered by an internal combustion engine?

The optimal type of sUAS powered by an internal combustion engine is a fixed-wing aircraft. Fixed-wing sUAS are designed for efficiency and endurance and can carry larger payloads over longer distances compared to other types of drones. This makes them particularly suitable for applications that require extended flight times, such as agricultural surveying, mapping, and long-range surveillance.

Using an internal combustion engine allows fixed-wing sUAS to achieve greater flight durations as these engines can provide continuous power without the weight limitations associated with batteries found in multirotors or helicopters. This efficiency enables fixed-wing aircraft to fly longer distances at higher speeds, making them ideal for various commercial and recreational uses that demand high performance.

In contrast, while hybrid UAVs can combine the benefits of both internal combustion engines and electric propulsion, their complexity and design focus on versatility might not maximize the performance benefits as effectively as a traditional fixed-wing design that is specifically optimized for airworthiness and efficiency when using an internal combustion engine.