In focus: A closer look at the advanced Flexrotor drone that is 'without peer'

The US Navy recently tested out a new drone in the ocean between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.

Dubbed by its manufacturer, Aerovel, as "the most advanced Group 2 small tactical unmanned aerial system", the Flexrotor is no ordinary drone.

The Flexrotor boasts some impressive features, according to Aerovel, which contribute to the drone being highly proficient in protecting military bases and other important assets by detecting unusual and threatening activity as well as explosive devices.

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The tactical drone has a vertical take-off and landing capability and flies on its own after take-off, with no pilot being needed.

Already used by the US military on land and at sea, the drone is ideal for surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance, Aerovel says.

The drone boasts a flight endurance of more than 30 hours and up to a 120km (75 miles) communications range and, its manufacturer adds "this all-weather aircraft has operated in some of the harshest conditions on earth".

With its steerable, zoomable imaging turret the Flexrotor conducts search and target tracking with a daylight or infrared camera.

All the imagery captured by the drone can even be viewed in real-time, meaning any threats can be addressed instantly.

Due to the combination of its relatively small size, large payload/range, economy, autonomy and basing flexibility of the drone, Aerovel says the Flexrotor is "without peer".