DJI’s Enterprise Division has introduced the Matrice 400, a new flagship drone that promises to transform mid-level aerial cinematography.
Originally engineered for industrial use, this drone can carry a payload of up to 6 kg, features advanced obstacle avoidance technology, and offers a flight time of up to one hour.
Image Credit – DJI Enterprise
Built for extreme conditions, the Matrice 400 has an IP55 all-weather rating and operates effectively in temperatures ranging from -20° C to 50° C (-4° F to 122° F).
It is specifically designed for inspecting high-tension electric lines, towers, offshore platforms, and similar structures.
By utilizing LiDAR and mmWave radar technologies, the Matrice identifies and navigates around difficult-to-see obstacles, allowing it to fly close to vertical structures and rugged terrain safely.
In low-light situations, the Matrice 400 uses full-color visual aids to provide operators with complete situational awareness, even at night.
Its navigation system detects key elements such as vehicles, people, and vessels.
The drone can even land on moving targets, thanks to augmented reality overlays that deliver both power line augmented reality views and map data.
This feature enhances real-time terrain tracking and maintains consistent elevation during flight.
Image Credit – DJI Enterprise
Drone operators can fly the Matrice 400 beyond visual range using DJI’s O4 Enterprise Transmission protocol, which delivers AES-256 encrypted video feeds from distances of up to 40 km.
Its built-in airborne relay system and optional dual cellular dongles ensure a reliable signal even in obstructed or remote areas.
However, it’s essential to remember that FAA regulations require operators to maintain a visual line of sight unless granted a waiver.
Image Credit – DJI Enterprise
For filmmakers, the Matrice 400 stands out primarily due to its heavy payload capacity.
It can carry up to 6 kg (about 13.25 pounds), accommodating high-end cinema cameras such as DJI’s Zenmuse H30, P1 Series cameras, or even the RED Komodo.
This capability allows filmmakers to capture stunning aerial views.
Additionally, the drone features seven mounting spots for extra equipment like lights, mapping devices, and geospatial tools.
Image Credit – DJI Enterprise
With an impressive flight speed of 25 m/s and an overall flight time of 59 minutes (up to 53 minutes of stable hovering) the Matrice 400 gives documentary filmmakers and camera operators plenty of time to set up and capture the perfect remote shot.
The drone also supports offline operation, with customizable security and privacy settings with as well as a local encrypted data mode for backup and reliability.
Image Credit – DJI Enterprise
Pricing and Availability
While DJI Enterprise has not disclosed an official price, experts believe the DJI Matrice 400 will retail between $10,000 and $20,000.
It is available now from DJI Enterprise directly or its authorized Enterprise dealers.
Though it carries a presumed high price tag, the drone is designed not only for industries such as construction, agriculture, search and rescue, and energy transmission but also holds significant promise as a robust platform for high-end aerial and remote imagery.
[source: DJI Enterprise]
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