According to @ai_darpa, a new rack-and-pinion tilt mechanism enables VTOL drones to achieve super clean, lightweight transitions without adding extra weight, significantly improving the efficiency of long-range drone operations (source: @ai_darpa, Dec 25, 2025). This development leverages AI to optimize tilt control, reducing energy consumption and extending flight duration for commercial and industrial drone applications. The innovation presents major business opportunities in logistics, surveillance, and delivery sectors, where efficient and reliable VTOL drones are in high demand.