January 2026
2025 was a year defined by operational efficiency at Kitemill. Through disciplined execution, tight feedback loops, and a high-tempo flight program, the team demonstrated that the system can be operated frequently, predictably, and safely. This efficiency now forms the foundation for expanding the operational envelope in 2026.
Over the course of 2025, Kitemill completed 254 flights, a step-change in operational cadence compared to previous years. These flights were intentionally short and repeatable, enabling rapid iteration across control software, procedures, and system interfaces while minimizing downtime between tests.
The effectiveness of this approach reflects strong coordination between engineering and operations. Under the day-to-day operational leadership of Marius Dyrseth, the team maintained a clear focus on preparation, execution, and post-flight learning—allowing development velocity to increase without compromising safety or control.
The operational efficiency achieved in 2025 translated directly into improved reliability. These results are the outcome of cumulative improvements in design, procedures, and operational discipline rather than any single change.
In parallel, the first kite incorporating Kitemill's reinforced wing design progressed from manufacturing into on-site qualification testing. This iteration strengthens structural margins and supports the longer flight durations and higher utilization expected in the next phase of development.
While 2025 emphasized efficiency and repeatability, the objective was always expansion—not optimization in isolation. The operational maturity achieved over the year now allows Kitemill to safely move into more demanding flight profiles, longer missions, and higher levels of autonomy.
This applies equally to energy-focused development and to applications requiring persistent airborne presence, such as infrastructure monitoring. In both cases, efficiency is a prerequisite for scale.
The regulatory approval for Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations secured in October 2025 was obtained deliberately in advance, ensuring that expanded operations in 2026 are not constrained by permitting. With the efficiency baseline established, the focus now extends to endurance, power optimization, and fully automated end-to-end operation across a broader operational envelope.
The operational mindset that defined 2025 remains unchanged. In 2026, it is applied at larger scale.
Kitemill enters the year with a proven operational rhythm, a more robust system, and a team ready to exercise the platform across its full intended range.
Caption: Image showing Jens Handell with Spark #15 during qualification testing for extended operational envelope flights, completed in Q1 2025.
