In the drone world, every component counts. While the general public focuses on cameras and propellers, professionals know that overall performance depends on key technological building blocks. Among these, the ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) plays a decisive role: it provides the link between the flight map and the motors, guaranteeing precise, stable and reliable response in all circumstances.
With the release of version 2 of ESC Centurionthe Drone Français confirms its ambition to build a sovereign, high-performance industry tailored to the needs of integrators. More powerful, better protected, and still 100% made in France, this new version is aimed at those who want to combine technological independence, industrial robustness and optimized performance.
What is an ESC and why is it essential in a drone?
An ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) is an electronic component that controls the speed of a drone's brushless motors. It receives instructions from the flight controller (flight controller), then modulates the intensity of the current transmitted to each motor. It ensures flight stability, agile maneuvering and responsiveness, even in demanding environments or in the face of sudden load variations.
A component at the heart of control
In practice, the ESC must :
- convert PWM or DShot signals from the flight board into current pulses suitable for the motors,
- balance relative engine speeds for hovering and travel,
- withstand voltage peaks without overheating,
- ensure stable thermal management.
In professional or military UAVs, a poor-quality ESC can cause oscillations, response delays, or even an outright crash. Conversely, a reliable, high-performance ESC increases flight precision, optimizes motor life and enhances overall system safety.
A critical technological building block for sovereignty
Like many other electronic components, ESCs are often produced outside Europe, mainly in Asia. This dependence poses risks of supply disruption, cyber-vulnerability and loss of control over quality.
That's the whole point of the Drone Français approach: to offer a solution designed, tested and documented in France, which can be integrated into civil or military systems requiring a high level of reliability.
Centurion v2: a new, more powerful, more robust generation
The first version of the ESC Centurion had already made its mark: compact size, good thermal stability, 4-in-1 assembly... But with this version 2Drone Français steps up a gear. Here are the key evolutions.
65A continuous, 80A peak: power to match
The Centurion v2 now boasts 65 amps continuous and up to 80 amps peak, enough to power the most powerful motors on professional drones, even in heavy configurations (payloads, pods, on-board modules).
This ramp-up allows :
- improved power-to-weight ratio,
- compatibility with engines hitherto reserved for top-of-the-range foreign ESCs,
- a greater thermal safety margin.
Thanks to this reserve, the Centurion v2 remains stable even during sudden acceleration, load variations or adverse weather conditions.
4-in-1 format: easy integration
Conforming to the 4-in-1 format, the Centurion v2 integrates four controllers on a single PCB, reducing wiring, weight and the risk of assembly errors. This format is ideal for compact chassis or projects requiring high integration density.
What's more, it is fully compatible with commercially available flight maps, and can be installed on both civilian UAVs and tactical platforms.
Strength, shielding and safety
The card is protected by a conformal coating that makes it resistant to moisture, dust and splashes. It also benefits from :
- EMI/EMC filtering to prevent electromagnetic interference,
- on-board thermal sensors with feedback to the flight map,
- optimized firmware for DShot, PWM, Oneshot signals...
Drone Français has also taken care of software protection, ensuring that the ESC remains stable even in the event of micro-disynchronization or signal loss, an essential guarantee for critical environments.
Wide voltage range (3 to 6S)
The Centurion v2 runs on 3S to 6S LiPo batteries, making it versatile for both lightweight drones and more powerful platforms. This allows integrators to modulate their energy architecture without changing the power electronics.
A cornerstone for a sovereign industry
More than just a product, the Centurion v2 embodies the desire to rebuild an autonomous value chain in France. By mastering power electronics, Drone Français is strengthening its technological sovereignty, particularly in the field of defense, inspection and security drones.
With local production, rigorous quality control, French-speaking technical support, and complete transparency of the supply chain, this component is part of a strategic dynamic.
ESC Centurion v2 is more than just a technical update: it's a concrete response to the needs of demanding drone professionals, concerned with performance, reliability and technological independence.
Drone Français demonstrates that sovereign innovation is possible, even in a field as competitive as on-board electronics for drones. More powerful, more robust, better protected, the Centurion v2 is aimed at all integrators, designers and manufacturers who want to make the Made in France choice without compromising on quality.
To find out more about this component or order it: ESC Centurion v2 - Official product sheet