DJI will integrate a FLIR thermal imaging sensor technology into its new DJI Zenmuse XT2 drone camera, which is DJI’s first dual-sensor and most advanced gimbal-stabilized camera for commercial UAS applications.

The DJI Zenmuse XT2 is built with industrial and public safety applications in mind, and according to FLIR and DJI, the camera expands upon the benefits offered by the DJI Zenmuse XT, which is the first thermal-equipped camera jointly developed by the companies.

“The arrival of the DJI Zenmuse XT2 with a FLIR sensor signifies an important technological advancement for drone operators who need both a visible camera and the superpower benefits of thermal imaging in one product,” says James Cannon, President and CEO of FLIR.

“Now drone operators can capture data without landing, an important advantage for search and rescues operations, monitor the health of mechanical and electrical equipment remotely, and identify potential problems in buildings. Our collaboration with DJI perfectly aligns with our mission to use our thermal technology to help save lives and livelihoods.”

​Operators can switch between thermal and visible cameras in flight, thanks to the new UAS camera being equipped with both a high-definition 4K color video camera and a high-resolution radiometric thermal camera. The camera also uses FLIR’s MSX technology, or multispectral dynamic imaging, that “embosses high-fidelity, visible-light details onto the thermal imagery to enhance image quality and perspective.”

Compatible with the DJI Matrice 600 and Matrice 200 Series platforms, the Zenmuse XT2 integrates with DJI’s data transmission technology for live video display. Full integrations gives UAS operators a variety of capabilities, including plug-and-play installation, real-time control, and recording during flight in thermal, visible, or thermal/visible picture-in-picture.

With this flexibility, operators can acquire double the data in a single camera and stay focused on mission-critical tasks.

“Since the introduction of our first FLIR camera in 2015 we have seen strong demand for thermal imaging-based products because they have helped transform DJI drones into essential and often lifesaving tools across a wide variety of industries,” says Roger Luo, President at DJI.

“We are excited to introduce our next generation product together, the Zenmuse XT2, which is easier and more efficient to operate, and further demonstrates our commitment to innovation in the commercial drone industry.”

The Zenmuse XT2 joins the ‘Thermal by FLIR’ partner program, which was created by FLIR to support OEMs and product innovators interested in using the FLIR thermal imaging sensors to “deliver the benefits of the World’s Sixth Sense.” DJI is one of several partners involved with the program, with other partners including Casio, Panasonic, and ARSENZ.