XTEND Closes Acquisition of Drone Inspection Firm Performance Rotors

Autonomous drone startup XTEND acquired Singapore-based drone inspection firm Performance Rotors. Deal figures are undisclosed.

The purchase integrates Performance Rotors' drone technology with XTEND's XOS platform, enabling human-guided operations in various industrial inspections. This combination can provide solutions for remote inspections in difficult or risky locations.

XTEND's XOS operating system combines human judgment with machine autonomy, providing a platform for operators to carry out tasks remotely. The system allows operators to control drones or smart machines, and perform complex tasks that need human interaction and decision-making.

Performance Rotors, led by CEO Keith Ng, has a focus on developing drone solutions for data collection in challenging environments.

In addition to inspection services, XTEND's XOS operating system is set to expand into public safety, security, and other civilian markets. The company recently secured contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense and MAFAT, the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Research & Development Directorate, for their drone technology.

Private Equity firm Chartered Group, which led the startup's $20 million Series A funding round in late 2021, also led the acquisition.