The challenge
The Mozzie was purpose‑built for real‑world missions where reliability, precision and sovereign manufacturing are essential. Grabba required a control solution that could:
- Deliver accurate, responsive input for complex flight operations
- Operate reliably in harsh and unpredictable environments
- Integrate seamlessly into a secure, defence‑aligned GCS
- Support both industrial and defence‑grade mission profiles
Standard consumer‑grade controls were not suitable for these requirements.
The solution
Althen Controls supplied TSD rugged joysticks, configured in a dual‑joystick setup within Grabba’s MissionHub GCS.
The modular joystick design allowed easy integration while providing the durability, tactile feedback, and precision required for mission‑critical UAS control. Operators benefit from intuitive handling, reduced fatigue, and consistent performance, whether deployed in defence or industrial operations.
Product used: TSD joysticks
Technical specifications
- Sensor technology: Hall effect (contactless)
- Output signal: 0–5 V analog
- Protection class: IP67
- Axes: Two
- Mechanical behaviour: Spring return
- Integration: Custom cable + JST connector
Configuration of the TSD joystick
The TSD Joystick was specifically configured to match the requirements of the Mozzie’s MissionHub GCS.
At its core, the solution combines robust mechanical design with precise electronic control. The contactless Hall effect sensors enable high accuracy, repeatability, and no wear on the sensing element.
Integration is simplified through a potted cable and a compact JST connector, allowing fast and reliable installation within the GCS.
Its IP67-rating and rugged housing make the joystick ideally suited for use in harsh environments.
Why this works for the Mozzie
The modular mini joystick architecture and configurable actuators allow Grabba to tailor the MissionHub GCS to specific operational requirements, while keeping the control interface reliable, precise and easy to integrate.
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Precise analog controlStable and responsive UAS flight control with 0–5 V analog output.
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Spring-return centeringAccurate and intuitive flight manoeuvres with automatic return to centre.
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Easy integrationCustom cabling and JST connector reduce assembly and engineering time.
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IP67-rated durabilityRugged housing supports long-term reliability in demanding environments.
Dual joystick control advantage
The MissionHub GCS uses a standard dual joystick control layout for maximum precision and intuitive operation:
- Left joystick → throttle (altitude) + yaw (rotation)
- Right joystick → pitch (forward/backward) + roll (left/right)
This configuration enables simultaneous, fine-tuned control, essential for:
- Stable flight control
- FPV navigation
- Complex manoeuvres in dynamic environments
Combined with high-accuracy Hall effect sensing, this ensures precise, responsive, and reliable control.
Mozzie is more than a drone. It’s a mission‑ready UAS system, engineered in Australia for the toughest operations.
Conclusion
By combining Grabba’s sovereign UAS platform with Althen’s rugged joystick technology, Mozzie delivers a complete, reliable, and operator‑focused control solution. The MissionHub GCS enables precise control when failure is not an option, supporting defence and industrial capabilities with confidence.
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Grabba Technologies and Keelback
The Mozzie is offered by Keelback, part of the Grabba Technologies Group, as a mission-ready UAS for defence, law enforcement and demanding industrial applications.
Keelback delivers mission-critical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) with speed and precision. Keelback products are manufactured in Queensland, Australia, adhering to globally recognised certifications and standards to deliver proven sovereign capability for mission-critical operations.
End-to-end manufacturing processes ensure the highest standards of quality, security, and reliability. Designed for defence, law enforcement, and commercial operations, Keelback UAS systems provide unmatched capability in the field.
Rugged, modular, and precision joystick solution for your UAS or control system?
Contact me to discuss your application or request a custom configuration.