JetRay Corporation announced that its JetRay Rover automated inspection platform is now deployed in operational use supporting Northrop Grumman programs, marking a major milestone for the company after nearly two decades of development focused on robotics-enabled inspection for aerospace applications.
The JetRay Rover is a field-deployable, sensor-agnostic automation platform designed to help inspection teams collect high-quality non-destructive testing (NDT) and surface measurement data more efficiently and repeatably across large, complex structures. The system is engineered to integrate a wide variety of inspection payloads, up to 200 lbs, including contact-based sensors and standoff sensors, enabling customers to tailor the Rover to their preferred methods and equipment while improving throughput, consistency, and operator safety.
“Getting real systems into the field and supporting day-to-day operations is the milestone we’ve been working toward for a long time,” said Michael Sorensen, president of JetRay. “We built the JetRay Rover as a practical automation layer that can carry and precisely position the sensors our customers already rely on—while adding the navigation, visualization, and collision-avoidance capabilities needed for confident use in real-world environments.”
Built for Real-World Inspection Environments
The JetRay Rover combines mobility, precision motion control, and software designed specifically for inspection workflows. Key capabilities include:
- Sensor-agnostic platform: Integrates a broad range of NDT and surface verification payloads up to 200 pounds.
- Contact or standoff operation: Supports tools that require physical contact as well as sensors that operate at distance
- Localized GPS navigation: Enables repeatable positioning and route execution in complex work areas
- Pre-visualization interface: Provides operators with a planning/preview environment to support safe motion and access
- Advanced collision detection: Software-driven collision avoidance to protect assets, tooling, and personnel
- C1D2 rated: Designed for use in hazardous environments where applicable
- Extended reach: Capable of carrying sensors to heights up to 65 feet, supporting large-area inspection without extensive scaffolding or repositioning
JetRay noted that multiple systems are currently in service and additional units are in the build queue as the company expands production capacity to meet growing demand for automated inspection solutions.
Seeking Sensor OEM and Teaming Partnerships
As JetRay accelerates commercialization, the company is actively seeking teaming and partner relationships with sensor manufacturers and inspection technology providers who want to expand their capabilities through automation.
“Many sensor OEMs have exceptional instruments, but their customers still face bottlenecks in access, repeatability, and inspection labor,” Sorensen added. “We’re interested in partnering with companies who see automation as the next step—where their sensor performance can be delivered faster, more consistently, and at scale.”