RTK GNSS – CubePilot’s Here Series Powers Precision Drone Navigation

RTK GNSS

RTK GNSS (Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System) is a revolution in UAV positioning. Unlike traditional GPS, which typically delivers accuracy within a few meters, RTK GNSS offers centimeter-level precision a must for tasks like mapping, surveying, inspection, and autonomous navigation.

Among the most respected solutions in this space is CubePilot’s Here GNSS series, which includes the Here 3/Here3+, Here 4/Here 4 Blue, and HerePro modules. Each offers advanced positioning performance with features tailored to different mission profiles and budget levels.

Why RTK GNSS Matters in Drones

RTK works by correcting standard GPS errors in real time using data from a local reference base station. For UAVs, this means incredibly stable and accurate flight paths—essential for automated surveying, construction monitoring, precision agriculture, and high-resolution photogrammetry. RTK also enables repeatable flights with sub-decimeter variance, something that traditional GPS cannot reliably offer

CubePilot Here Series Overview:

CubePilot, the company behind the popular Cube autopilot system, partners with u-blox—a world leader in GNSS—to power their Here line. All Here modules are designed to seamlessly integrate with ArduPilot, PX4, and Cube autopilots, and they support multi-constellation GNSS: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, and QZSS.

Let’s break down the differences between the most popular models:

Here 3+

Type: Single-band RTK GNSS (L1)

Chipset: u-blox M8P

Accuracy: ~2.5 cm (RTK fixed)

Key Features:

– DroneCAN (UAVCAN) interface

– RTK base/rover support

– Integrated 3-axis compass

– Affordable, high-precision option

Best For: Entry-level RTK applications, photogrammetry, and budget-conscious mapping UAVs.

Here 4

Type: Dual-band RTK GNSS (L1 + L5)

Chipset: u-blox ZED-F9P

Accuracy: 1–2 cm (RTK fixed)

Key Features:

– Faster RTK fix time (<10 s)

– Embedded STM32H7 for real-time processing

– Built-in IMU (future firmware will support tight INS/GNSS fusion)

– ProfiLED customizable indicator lights

– Optional Drone-ID capability

Best For: Professional mapping, industrial inspection, fast-moving drones needing ultra-fast satellite lock and high stability.

HerePro V2

Type: Multi-band RTK GNSS (L1, L2, L5 depending on config)

Chipset: u-blox ZED-F9P

Accuracy: <1 cm (RTK fixed)

Key Features:

– Supports moving base + rover setups

– Built-in 9-axis IMU

– Advanced signal filtering and multipath mitigation

– Compact aluminum housing

– Ideal for both UAVs and robotics platforms

Best For: High-precision industrial UAVs, robotics, autonomous vehicles, and teams requiring multi-GNSS redundancy and robust performance in multipath or high-dynamic environments.

Final Thoughts

The CubePilot Here series brings professional-grade precision to UAV systems of all sizes and budgets. Whether you’re launching your first mapping drone or building an autonomous vehicle that needs high-fidelity localization, there’s a Here GNSS module for you. All three integrate natively with Cube autopilots, ArduPilot, and PX4, making setup simple and reliable.

With the Here 4 and HerePro pushing the boundaries of multi-band, RTK-level positioning, CubePilot has become a top choice for drone professionals who demand accuracy, performance, and future-proof flexibility.

If you’re serious about drone precision, it’s time to go from “close enough” to centimeter-accurate—and CubePilot’s Here series is your trusted solution.

a large, active community. Its long history (10+ years) and extensive use in professional UAVs underscore its reliability and industry support.

Sources:

The Cube | CubePilot

The CubePilot guides