Sourcing decisions define how effectively a UAV platform can perform its mission. The wrong choice when sourcing a Gimbal can compromise an entire mission, add unnecessary weight to a platform, or leave an operator blind in conditions where visibility matters most. Whether the application is border surveillance, target detection, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), or coastal intelligence, the gimbal is the critical link between the aircraft and actionable intelligence on the ground.
With a growing range of electro-optical and infrared solutions available, selecting the right system requires more than comparing specifications.
Here are 6 things every organization should understand before sourcing gimbals for a UAV program.
1. Know Your Platform and Payload Budget
Every UAV platform has limits, and payload weight is one of the first factors that determines which gimbal solutions are suitable. A heavier payload can impact endurance, range, and overall aircraft performance.
Gimbal systems vary significantly in size and capability. Compact solutions are designed for smaller UAV platforms where every gram matters, while larger systems support extended-range intelligence and surveillance missions with advanced sensor packages.
For example, MERIO’s Milvus family includes lightweight aerial gimbals such as the Milvus 7, weighing 245 grams with a 70 mm diameter, as well as larger systems such as the Milvus 25 family designed for higher-performance applications. Understanding the aircraft’s payload capacity, physical envelope, and mission requirements before sourcing helps ensure the selected gimbal supports the platform rather than limiting it.
2. Understand Sensor Configuration Requirements
A gimbal’s value comes from the sensors it carries. Different mission profiles require different imaging capabilities, and selecting the right combination of sensors is essential.
Electro-optical (EO) cameras provide detailed daytime imagery, while infrared (IR) sensors enable thermal observation in low-light conditions and across a wider range of operational environments. Many modern UAV missions benefit from combining both technologies in a single payload.
MERIO’s gimbal portfolio includes configurations ranging from compact dual EO/IR systems to advanced solutions combining full HD EO cameras with cooled mid-wave infrared (MWIR) sensors. For example, the Milvus 16 and Milvus 25 families offer cooled MWIR options designed for missions requiring increased sensitivity and long-range observation.
Before selecting a gimbal, organizations should evaluate whether their mission requires daytime imaging, thermal capability, or a multi-sensor configuration that supports broader operational requirements.
3. Understand Detection Performance Beyond the Numbers
It is important to understand what detection range figures actually describe. Detection range is an important specification, but it should always be evaluated in context. Detection, recognition, and identification represent different levels of image interpretation, and the distance achievable depends on multiple factors, including sensor type, optics, and environmental conditions.
Optical zoom is another key consideration. A system using higher optical zoom can preserve more image detail at longer distances compared to relying mainly on digital zoom.
MERIO’s Milvus range demonstrates how gimbal performance scales across applications. The Milvus 7 provides daytime vehicle detection capabilities up to 10 km, while higher-performance variants such as the Milvus 25 family extend detection capabilities up to 35 km depending on configuration.
When sourcing a gimbal, procurement teams should look beyond a single range figure and evaluate whether the system provides the image quality and detail required for the intended mission.
4. Evaluate Laser Capabilities Based on Mission Needs
For some UAV missions, imaging alone is not enough. Integrated laser capabilities can expand what a gimbal system can support, particularly for applications requiring accurate distance measurement or target-related functions.
A Laser Rangefinder (LRF) provides distance measurement capabilities to support accurate positioning and mapping applications. MERIO gimbals include Class 1 eye-safe LRF options across several models, with ranges depending on the system configuration.
Laser Pointer (LP) options provide near-infrared illumination capabilities for compatible operations, while Laser Target Designator (LTD) capabilities support more advanced applications. MERIO’s Milvus 16D and Milvus 25D configurations include LTD options compliant with STANAG 3733 requirements.
Understanding which laser capability aligns with the mission prevents organizations from selecting a system based on unnecessary specifications or missing critical operational requirements.
5. Stabilization and Embedded Processing Define System Performance
A gimbal’s ability to deliver usable imagery depends heavily on stabilization quality. UAV platforms experience vibration, movement, and changing flight conditions, making precise stabilization essential for maintaining image quality.
Modern gimbals increasingly combine mechanical stabilization with embedded processing capabilities. These features can support functions such as digital stabilization, geo-tracking, target detection, classification, and efficient video management.
MERIO’s Vision.AI embedded processing solutions provide capabilities including H.264/H.265 video encoding, digital stabilization, tracking and follow-me functions, target detection, classification, and STANAG 4609-compliant communication protocols.
These capabilities allow the gimbal to become more than an imaging device by supporting faster access to usable information during operations.
6. Consider the Complete System
A gimbal operates as part of a larger UAV ecosystem. The airframe, communication system, ground control station, and software all influence how effectively the payload performs.
Selecting a high-performance gimbal without considering the supporting software and operator interface can create integration challenges and reduce operational efficiency.
MERIO’s VisionControl ground control system provides a unified interface for managing UAV payload operations. It includes single, dual, and picture-in-picture video display options, direct camera controls for zoom, focus, exposure, image stabilization, and thermal settings, along with integrated mapping, distance measurement, and target coordinate calculation.
A complete system approach ensures that the gimbal, software, and operator workflow work together from mission planning through execution.
Why UAV Propulsion Tech Recommends Merio
The decision to source a gimbal impacts more than payload selection. It influences mission capability, integration complexity, operational performance, and future platform flexibility.
UAV Propulsion Tech carries Merio as its recommended gimbal solution because Merio addresses each of these six sourcing considerations as a complete system rather than a collection of individual specifications.
Merio is a French designer and manufacturer trusted by armed forces worldwide, with a portfolio that spans platforms from the smallest tactical UAVs to larger intelligence-gathering aircraft and naval vessels. They provide a portfolio of gyrostabilized gimbals designed for air, land, and maritime applications, supporting missions including surveillance, intelligence, coastal monitoring, border operations, target detection, and ISR. Its product range includes compact aerial solutions, advanced EO/IR systems, marine gimbals, embedded processing solutions, and ground control software.
UAV Propulsion Tech provides access to MERIO’s gimbal solutions for organizations looking to integrate advanced observation capabilities into their UAV platforms. With a focus on matching the right technology to the mission requirement, UAV Propulsion Tech supports customers throughout the sourcing process.
To learn more about MERIO gimbal solutions or discuss your UAV payload requirements, get in touch with us!