A drone that can fly without the help of humans is one step closer to hitting the skies of Israel.

Optimus can fly for half an hour without a human pilot on the controls.

Its creator, Airobotics, recently became the first in the world to be granted permission to fly an automated drone.

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Optimus is a high-functioning drone that can fly for half an hour without a human pilot on the controls (pictured)

OPTIMUS DRONE Fly for half an hour unmanned

Can carry one kg (two pounds)

Launched from automated 'airbase'

Programmed using simple software

Fitted with robotic arm for switching batteries

Camera that streams real-time video Advertisement

Ran Krauss, CEO of Airobotics, said: 'Our core technology is truly autonomous.

'That means drones are launched and landed automatically, without need for a pilot.'

The vehicle is launched from an automated 'airbase' which is pre-programmed using computer software.

'Our system is easily operated by anyone from anywhere,' he said.

'And drones are deployed from a click of a button.'

Optimus, seen here flying near Petah Tikva in Israel, has recently been granted the first certificate in the world to fly without a human pilot

Ran Krauss, co-founder and CEO of Airobotics, the Israeli technology company that designed the Optimus drone

The drone is fitted with military-grade avionics for precise control and can be pre-programmed to carry out 'missions'.

It is fitted with a robotic arm that is capable of swapping batteries, which removes the need for humans to recharge the vehicle.

The large-size unmanned vehicle is fitted with a camera capable of streaming real-time aerial video.

The large-size unmanned vehicle is fitted with a camera capable of streaming real-time aerial video

Its creators said the drone's camera could be used by private businesses, such as mining companies, for aerial surveys and surveillance of their land

Its creators said the drone's camera could be used by private businesses, such as mining companies, for aerial surveys and surveillance of their land.

'Routine inspections with drones not only significantly save resources but also prevents endangerment of employees performing them,' said Mr Krauss.

He added that drones could be used to respond to emergencies that would put employees in danger, such as a gas leak.