Hangar X Studios

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner for a deep dive into the rapidly evolving world of military drone technology. With over 25 years in the U.S. Army and extensive experience in combat, defense acquisitions, and unmanned systems, Brabner shares his insights on how drones are permanently transforming warfare. From lessons learned in Iraq and Afghanistan to real-time observations from Ukraine, he explains the strategic, tactical, and operational advantages of small UAS, the Army’s shift toward purpose-built attritable systems, and the importance of rapid adaptation. This conversation explores cutting-edge developments like EOIR sensors, communication relay payloads, and kinetic FPV drones, while stressing the urgency of innovation, regulatory reform, and industry collaboration to maintain U.S. drone dominance.

[00:00:00] Brabner on the growing realization across the DoD that failure to adapt to drone technology could result in catastrophic consequences in future conflicts.
[00:04:09] Lessons from Ukraine: how free battlefield lessons inform U.S. joint requirements and innovation.
[00:06:39] Shift from snipers to drone operators as the most lethal battlefield role; drones destroying thousands of armored vehicles.
[00:10:45] Addressing past capability gaps: shortening the sensor-to-shooter timeline and empowering tactical units with organic UAS assets.
[00:13:55] The hunter-killer paradigm: pairing reconnaissance drones with kinetic FPV systems for maximum effect.
[00:18:13] Importance of communication extension payloads for operational advantage in denied environments.
[00:20:45] Electronic warfare payloads and survivability in GPS-denied environments.
[00:22:29] Overcoming regulatory hurdles: decentralizing risk acceptance to speed deployment.
[00:23:41] Incremental path toward advanced drone lethality, starting with safe, compliant designs like the “Audible” modular payload.
[00:29:57] Tactical use cases for drones in defensive positions, from marking targets to calling in precision fires.
[00:32:37] The SECDEF memorandum’s emphasis on long-term vision, strategic investment, and continuous adaptation.
[00:34:28] Encouraging industry innovation and competition to avoid stagnation.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner has served over 25 years in the U.S. Army, with multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His career spans frontline command, defense acquisitions, and leadership in unmanned aerial systems development. As Branch Chief in Requirements at Fort Moore, Brabner has been at the forefront of shaping the Army’s future drone capabilities, advocating for rapid adaptation, organic lethality at the tactical level, and streamlined acquisition processes. His work on the “Audible” program and purpose-built attritable systems reflects a deep commitment to empowering soldiers with innovative, survivable, and effective battlefield tools.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brabner-17b124253/ 

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aerospace professor and Air Force veteran Robert Lunnie, live from VertiCon. Together, they dive into the challenges and breakthroughs of designing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, focusing on subscale prototyping, flight testing, and real-time transition from vertical to horizontal flight.

Lunnie walks us through his collaborative work with XTI Aerospace, explains the development process behind experimental models like the TriFan, and shares how the University of North Dakota (UND) has become a powerhouse in drone R&D and autonomous flight systems. This episode is a deep technical dive into the future of flight and the dynamic ecosystem driving aerospace innovation.

Robert Lunnie is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and current professor of aerospace at the University of North Dakota, one of the world’s premier flight schools. With a background in nuclear systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Lunnie leads advanced research in drone prototyping, flight dynamics, and human-machine interface development. He collaborates with industry leaders like XTI Aerospace and fosters innovation through UND’s cutting-edge drone research centers, including the Hive and the Gorman Test Center.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-lunnie-465862a1/ 

Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University is a globally recognized leader in aviation and aerospace education. With campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, as well as a robust online learning network, the university offers specialized programs in engineering, aviation, aerospace, business, cybersecurity, and more. Known for its cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and strong emphasis on hands-on learning, Embry‑Riddle prepares students for careers in some of the world’s most dynamic and high-tech industries. Its graduates are highly sought after by major aerospace companies, airlines, and government agencies worldwide.

“Lift off the wing is a wonderful, beautiful thing.”
– Robert Lunnie

“Trying to get a model to transition from vertical to horizontal safely, reliably, and repeatedly is a lot of work.”
– Robert Lunnie

“We’re not super concerned about longevity. We’re learning about that vertical to horizontal transition.”
– Robert Lunnie

“Once you start learning what we have up there [at UND], it’s a no-brainer to come up and do your development and testing.”
– Robert Lunnie

In this compelling episode of Hangar X Studios, host and former fighter pilot John Ramstead sits down with Doug McDonald, founder of isight Drones, for a deep dive into how drones are reshaping commercial industries. From wind blade inspections to agriculture and life-saving medical delivery, Doug shares firsthand insights on real-world drone applications, the challenges of drone logistics, and the evolving regulatory and manufacturing landscape. Recorded live at The Hive in Grand Forks, North Dakota, this conversation spotlights the practical side of drone deployment and the future of advanced air mobility.

[00:00:00] Doug explains how drones replace dangerous manual inspections on wind turbines
[00:01:52] Overview of isight Drones and its 30+ pilot national operation
[00:03:09] The reality of drone logistics: equipment, redundancy, and deployment
[00:04:18] Using LiDAR and optical sensors to inspect wind blades
[00:04:45] Clients don’t want data, they want insights — like “delamination at 34 meters”
[00:05:28] Precision agriculture: stand counts, weed detection, and smart spraying
[00:07:06] Rock mapping for farming: a costly problem solved efficiently
[00:08:49] Drone delivery for rural healthcare and VA patients
[00:10:39] Hybrid aircraft: 7-hour range, 70mph, 400–500 miles per flight
[00:11:31] Supply chain reality: DJI dominance vs. American drone complexity
[00:13:56] Battery supply issues and emerging U.S. manufacturers like Badlands Batteries
[00:14:48] Building the next DJI in North Dakota? Opportunities for drone entrepreneurs

Doug McDonald is the founder of isight Drones, a drone service provider specializing in inspections of critical energy infrastructure across 47 states and 7 countries. With a background rooted in the rugged landscape of North Dakota, Doug brings practical, grounded leadership to the drone industry. isight Drones serves sectors including wind energy, solar, agriculture, and medical logistics, and is recognized for its deep expertise in deploying scalable drone solutions. Doug’s approach blends advanced sensor technology, robust field operations, and a clear-eyed view of drone regulation and manufacturing.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-mcdonald-1139007/ 

isight Drones is a leading drone service provider specializing in inspections and data collection for critical infrastructure across the energy, agriculture, and construction sectors. Operating in 47 states and 7 countries, the company deploys a fleet of advanced drones equipped with LiDAR, thermal, and optical sensors to deliver actionable insights for clients. With a team of over 30 skilled pilots, isight Drones supports everything from wind blade and solar panel inspections to precision agriculture, rock mapping, and medical supply delivery. Their mission is to replace dangerous, time-consuming, and costly manual processes with safe, efficient aerial solutions.

“Historically, it was always dirty, dull, and dangerous. That's what drones are for.”
– Doug McDonald

“We’re really a logistics company that happens to fly drones.”
– Doug McDonald

“They don’t want a mountain of data. They want to know what the problem is.”
– Doug McDonald

“If one goes down and you've only got one, you're done for two or three weeks.”
– Doug McDonald

“There’s a huge opportunity right now because DJI could be replaced by an American company.”
– John Ramstead

In this exciting episode recorded live at Verticon, host John Ramstead sits down with Kim Hutchings, co-founder of Volo Mission, the only U.S.-based helicopter training program dedicated exclusively to long line external load operations. Kim shares how a need for formalized training inspired her and her husband—a veteran external load pilot—to launch Volo Mission. They delve into the complexities of long line flying, the skillset it demands, how Volo’s curriculum is transforming pilot readiness, and their latest initiatives to bring more women into the rotorcraft industry. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a commercial pilot, or someone fascinated by the evolving vertical economy, this episode delivers high-impact insights into one of aviation’s most specialized disciplines.

[00:00:03] Kim describes how her husband entered the world of external load flying without any formal training
[00:00:29] Host John Ramstead introduces the episode and sets the stage from Verticon
[00:02:07] Kim shares the founding of Volo Mission and its unique long line training
[00:03:21] The challenge of flight dynamics and learning to “fly the line”
[00:04:15] Techniques to control swinging loads in windy conditions
[00:04:44] What’s new in 2025: adding complex training scenarios and live fire Bambi bucket exercises
[00:05:20] Types of students: aspiring pilots and operators sending new hires
[00:05:27] Clarifying there's no formal certification—just essential skill development
[00:05:49] Introduction to “Ladies of the Long Line” and scholarships for women via the Whirly Girls
[00:06:42] Volo’s work as a distributor for the Robinson R66 Utility helicopter
[00:07:22] Kim's advice to pilots considering long line work: it will make you a better pilot, regardless of your path

Kim Hutchings is the co-founder of Volo Mission, the premier long line external load training company based in the U.S. Together with her husband—a seasoned Chinook pilot with over three decades of experience in logging and external load ops—Kim built a training curriculum grounded in safety, technique, and realism. Volo Mission now supports pilots and operators worldwide, with a strong emphasis on skill-building rather than certification. Kim is also the driving force behind initiatives to bring more women into rotorcraft aviation, such as the Ladies of the Long Line program in partnership with the Whirly Girls, an international organization of female helicopter pilots.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-hutchings-1bbbb92a/

Volo Mission is a specialized helicopter training company dedicated exclusively to external load and long line operations. Founded by veteran pilot couple Kim Hutchings and her husband, Volo Mission was created to fill a critical gap in the industry by offering formal, hands-on training for one of aviation’s most complex and high-risk skills. With over a decade of experience, the program immerses pilots in real-world scenarios using a variety of loads and dynamic conditions to build precision, safety, and confidence. From aspiring commercial pilots to seasoned operators, Volo Mission equips aviators with the techniques and mindset needed for excellence in vertical lift operations.

"So you have to learn how to fly that line and control that line and load, because all different loads fly differently." – Kim Hutchings

"Sometimes we have pilots that just want to build their skill set. No matter what, this makes you a better pilot." – Kim Hutchings

"We give a scholarship to the Whirly Girls… it's our way to expose more women to what this industry is about." – Kim Hutchings

"We train with the Robinson R44 and now exclusively distribute the R66 Utility. That’s a big step for us in 2025." – Kim Hutchings

In this gripping episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Robert DeLaurentis, widely known as the “Peace Pilot,” to explore a life defined by courage, purpose, and innovation in aviation. From surviving a jet fuel explosion in Senegal to flying over the poles in a modified aircraft, Robert shares jaw-dropping stories of risk, resilience, and mission-driven flight.

More than a pilot, Robert is an author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and visionary turning a rural Washington airport into a futuristic air mobility hub. He brings deep spiritual insight into his ventures, blending technology, adventure, and a quest for global unity. Whether you're an aerospace enthusiast or someone searching for purpose, this episode will leave you inspired and introspective.

Robert DeLaurentis is a Navy veteran, global aviator, philanthropist, author, and founder of the DeLaurentis Foundation. Nicknamed the “Peace Pilot,” he has completed both equatorial and polar circumnavigations in highly modified aircraft. His mission, “to unite humanity through the spirit of flight,” drives his public speaking, documentary work, and infrastructure development, including an advanced air mobility hub in Washington. With a background in spiritual psychology and entrepreneurship, Robert seamlessly blends innovation with introspection, science with soul.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rdelaurentis/

DeLaurentis International Airport, located on Whidbey Island in Washington State, is a visionary aviation hub founded by Robert DeLaurentis, also known as the “Peace Pilot.” Originally acquired and revitalized through a personal donation, the airport has been transformed into a modern, safe, and fully operational facility with expanded runways and upgraded infrastructure. Spanning over 40 acres, it is strategically positioned to become a center for advanced and urban air mobility, offering critical connectivity between Seattle, Canada, and the San Juan Islands. Unlike many privately owned airports, DeLaurentis International is dedicated to aviation advancement rather than commercial development, with long-term plans focused on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community contribution.

"The mission became more important than me... I was going to do everything I physically could to complete it." – Robert DeLaurentis

"We can't trust everything on our computers. You need to go out into the world and see for yourself."

"All living things suffer. And it's the one thing that connects humanity."

"A legacy isn’t what you give to people, it’s what you leave in them." – John Ramstead

"If it happens once, you're lucky. Twice, you're really lucky. But more than that, you're here for a reason."

In this impactful episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Michael Whitaker, former FAA Administrator and seasoned aerospace leader, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of aviation. Together, they dive deep into how government, industry, and emerging technology are converging to reshape the vertical economy. From enabling BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone operations to the rollout of SFAR for powered lift aircraft, Michael brings unparalleled insights from both his time inside the FAA and his work in private aerospace.

This episode is a must-listen for innovators, investors, pilots, and aerospace professionals invested in advanced air mobility (AAM), drone infrastructure, and regulatory modernization. Whitaker outlines the challenges and progress in safety, certification, autonomy, and air traffic control, while offering a hopeful vision for the future of regional connectivity and unmanned flight.

Michael Whitaker is the former Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with over three decades of experience in the global aerospace industry. Prior to his tenure at the FAA, Whitaker served as COO of Supernal, a Hyundai subsidiary pioneering advanced air mobility solutions. His deep industry roots include leadership roles in major airlines and policy influence through his work on pivotal FAA regulatory reforms like the SFAR for powered lift and BVLOS drone frameworks. Whitaker continues to advise on aviation innovation globally, including serving on the board of India’s Indigo Airlines.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-whitaker-14329828/

Supernal is an advanced air mobility (AAM) company launched by Hyundai Motor Group with the mission of redefining transportation through electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., Supernal is developing a safe, reliable, and sustainable air mobility ecosystem that integrates seamlessly into existing transit networks. By combining aerospace engineering excellence with automotive-scale manufacturing and innovation, Supernal aims to make air travel more accessible, efficient, and environmentally responsible. The company is targeting commercial launch in the late 2020s and is actively collaborating with global partners across infrastructure, policy, and technology to shape the future of urban and regional mobility.

“Every VOR has a mother, and every mother has a member of Congress.”
— Michael Whitaker, on the challenges of airspace modernization

“The BVLOS rule is not about restriction, it’s about enablement—without it, you can’t operate.”
— Michael Whitaker

“The fewer miracles you're trying to certify, the more viable your aircraft is.”
— Michael Whitaker on pragmatic innovation

“Safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the motor oil of the entire industry.”
— Michael Whitaker

“Until we separate ATC from the FAA and Congress, modernization will always stall.”
— Michael Whitaker

 In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead is joined by Jim Keyes, a seasoned business leader, investor, and innovator. Jim’s inspiring journey includes serving as the CEO of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven, but his passion for aerospace and space exploration runs deep, beginning in his childhood. Jim shares his personal experiences and insights into the intersection of leadership, innovation, and the rapidly evolving aerospace industry. He discusses his philosophy of personal agency, the importance of overcoming fear, and how the future of aerospace—especially in vertical lift technologies like eVTOL and XVTOL—holds immense potential. Jim also reflects on his conversations with astronauts, the future of commerce in the Middle East, and how change leads to opportunity.

Episode Highlights:

Key Points with Time Stamps:

Guest Bio:
Jim Keyes is a seasoned business leader and investor with extensive experience in leading Fortune 500 companies, including as the CEO of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven. With a lifelong passion for aerospace, Jim has been deeply involved in the industry as both a business leader and a pilot. He is the author of Education is Freedom, a book that explores the power of learning, personal agency, and critical thinking in navigating today’s fast-changing world. Jim has also played a significant role in aerospace innovation and is passionate about how new technologies, such as vertical lift systems and air taxis, will revolutionize transportation. His journey from humble beginnings to leading successful businesses provides a powerful message of resilience and opportunity.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-keyes-a0947215/ 

Notable Quotes:

In this gripping episode recorded live at Verticon, former fighter pilot and host John Ramstead sits down with Dave Salem, founder of Eagle West Helicopters and former law enforcement officer turned production test pilot. Dave shares an extraordinary journey that spans from police patrol cars to executing full-down auto rotations at night using NVGs. This conversation dives deep into the world of advanced helicopter training, emergency preparedness, and the life-saving decisions pilots must make in seconds.

Whether you're in aviation, leadership, or just inspired by those who push boundaries in service of others, Dave’s insights on real-world training and helicopter safety are nothing short of exceptional.

Dave Salem is the founder of Eagle West Helicopters, a company specializing in advanced helicopter training including NVG operations, emergency procedure drills, and transitional/recurrent training. With a rich career that started in law enforcement, Dave transitioned into aviation with the Mesa Police Department, later becoming a production test pilot at MD Helicopters and Bell.

With over a decade of experience flying and training in MD aircraft, Dave has developed a reputation for creating realistic, scenario-based training that mimics the real-life environments pilots operate in — from utility work to law enforcement missions. He continues to volunteer in Arizona and is passionate about saving lives through rigorous training.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-salem-a1682396/

About Eagle West Helicopters

Eagle West Helicopters is a premier provider of advanced helicopter training, specializing in emergency procedures, night vision goggle (NVG) operations, and scenario-based instruction tailored to real-world flying environments. Founded by experienced pilot Dave Salem, the company serves law enforcement, first responders, utility pilots, and private aviators with high-quality, mission-specific training designed to build instinctive, life-saving skills. With a focus on safety, precision, and hands-on experience, Eagle West Helicopters is committed to preparing pilots for the challenges of everyday and emergency flight operations.

"When you get your ratings, you do everything the FAA requires. But after you get your ratings, now you train to save your life."
— Dave Salem

"You only have one shot at it. So it has to be instinctive. And if it’s not, we need to make it instinctive."
— Dave Salem

"My job is to give somebody every tool they have in case something happens."
— Dave Salem

"I shut all the cockpit lights off in training. Why? Because in a real emergency, you don’t know what’s going to fail."
— Dave Salem

"That 15 to 30 seconds after an engine failure — it defines your preparedness and skill."
— John Ramstead

In this insightful episode of Hangar X Studios, host and former Navy fighter pilot John Ramstead sits down with Bas Gouverneur, CEO of Daedalean, at Verticon, a hub of next-gen aerospace innovation. Together, they explore how AI is revolutionizing cockpit technology, enhancing flight safety, and transforming the way pilots interact with the skies.

Bas dives into Daedalean’s groundbreaking work in AI-enabled avionics — including bird and drone detection, GPS-denied navigation, landing guidance, and visual traffic detection. As the aviation industry inches closer to autonomous flight, Bas shares how AI is becoming a trusted co-pilot, not a replacement, and what that means for the future role of pilots.

Whether you're an aviator, aerospace professional, or technology enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen for understanding the future of intelligent aviation systems.

Bas Gouverneur is the CEO of Daedalean, a Swiss-based aerospace company developing AI-driven avionics for safer, more autonomous flight. With an aerospace engineering background, Bas previously worked on large aircraft like the Airbus A380 and military platforms such as the F18 and Super Puma. His experience spans MRO operations and advanced cockpit upgrades, culminating in his leadership role at Daedalean, where he is guiding the company through innovation and certification milestones toward a new era of aviation safety.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/basgouverneur/ 

About Daedalean:

Daedalean is a Zurich-based aerospace technology company pioneering the development of AI-powered avionics systems for civil and commercial aviation. Founded in 2016, Daedalean aims to enhance flight safety and enable increased automation by integrating machine learning into visual perception, navigation, and guidance systems. Their solutions act as an intelligent co-pilot, capable of detecting non-cooperative traffic such as birds and drones, navigating in GPS-denied environments, and guiding landings with high precision. With a commitment to certifiable, deterministic AI, Daedalean is redefining how pilots interact with the cockpit and setting new standards for the future of autonomous and semi-autonomous flight.

“We are just basically another pair of eyes for the pilot. The pilot looks at one point at a time. We have 240 degrees — looking all the time.” — Bas Gouverneur

“The safety levels of commercial aviation are super good — and yet there's so much to be improved on in smaller aircraft and helicopter operations.” — Bas Gouverneur

“For any given input, you get the same output. That’s when we freeze the algorithm. It doesn’t learn on the fly. It’s deterministic.” — Bas Gouverneur

“Pilots are here to stay. This technology helps reduce workload and increase safety. The airspace is only getting more complex.” — Bas Gouverneur

In this high-octane episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead is joined by Steve Griessel, a seasoned entrepreneur and aerospace innovator, to unpack the seismic shifts in modern warfare, rapid prototyping, and the mindset needed to lead breakthrough innovations in aerospace. Steve shares insights from his journey as a turnaround expert and his work with Paramount and global defense projects, illustrating how disruptive thinking, model-based design, and iterative prototyping are changing how aerospace systems are conceived, built, and deployed.

From the battlefield transformation caused by drones to the power of simulation and digital twins, this conversation lays out a blueprint for aerospace leaders, innovators, and investors aiming to thrive in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.

Steve Griessel is a South African-born, first-generation American entrepreneur and transformation expert with a career spanning multiple industries. Formerly the Global CEO of Paramount, a defense and aerospace company known for its innovative systems and rapid prototyping capabilities, Steve now manages the family office of the same founding family. Known for taking companies through rapid change and innovation, his leadership is grounded in shifting mindsets, applying systems thinking, and embracing failure as part of innovation. Steve remains deeply involved in the aerospace and defense space, advising on model-based design, innovation strategies, and investment opportunities.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/skgriessel/ 

About Paramount

Paramount is a leading global aerospace and defense company known for its agile, innovative approach to solving modern military challenges. Founded with a mission to develop cutting-edge, mission-ready solutions, Paramount specializes in rapid prototyping, modular aircraft, land systems, and advanced defense technologies. The company prioritizes capability-driven design, engaging directly with governments and special forces to tailor solutions that meet real-world operational needs. With a focus on affordability, scalability, and user-centric design, Paramount has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance platforms in record time across complex global environments.

"Be prepared to crash it and learn from it. That requires a completely different way of thinking."
— Steve Griessel

"The Ukrainian war has completely changed the face of warfare forever."
— Steve Griessel

"You can buy all the tools in the world, but if you're not willing to change your thinking, you’ll end up in the same place."
— Steve Griessel

"Model-based design, AI, and quantum computing—those three are going to revolutionize aerospace in the next five years."
— Steve Griessel

"The future belongs to those who ask better questions, not just those who have better tools."
— Steve Griessel