Our Mission
To deliver American-made, field-repairable tactical drones designed specifically for the needs of U.S. law enforcement, SWAT, and public safety teams.
For Law Enforcement By Law Enforcement
Midwest Robotics LE was created by two active LEO'S.
Chris Metzler is a current SWAT member with years of drone operating experience in real-world scenarios. Chris has used his experience to help produce solutions to the issues he's faced in the field.
Joseph Heyob is currently in a leadership role with a Narcotics Unit who has served hundreds of warrants utilizing drone technology. As a drone hobbyist he put his engineering expertise to the task of developing a platform to meet the needs of law enforcement everywhere.
About Midwest Robotics
Midwest Robotics is a Dayton, Ohio based manufacturer of tactical drones built for mission-critical operations. Our debut product — the OHIO-1 is a drone platform combining a proprietary 3D-printed frame with publicly available components. Designed from the ground up by professionals who understand tactical operations firsthand, the OHIO 1 provides agencies a reliable, compliant, and repairable alternative to restricted foreign drones like the DJI Avata 2.
Who We Are
Midwest Robotics is a U.S.-owned and operated company founded by Joseph Heyob and Christopher Metzler, who bring together deep expertise in engineering, design, and real-world tactical operations. One of our co-founders is an active SWAT operator with direct field experience deploying drones during live missions.
What We Do
We design and manufacture small, modular UAV systems optimized for tactical and surveillance missions. Our products are built differently:
Serviceable on-site — Operators can replace damaged parts immediately, minimizing downtime in critical situations
Transparent and compliant — Constructed entirely from non-restricted components
Mission-focused — Designed by law enforcement professionals, for law enforcement professionals
Why It Matters
Foreign-manufactured drones — especially those from companies like DJI — face increasing restrictions for government and law enforcement use. Agencies need dependable American alternatives that deliver high performance without compromising on cost, flexibility, or security.
Development Roadmap
Year 1
Glass-breaker attachment for the Ohio 1.0
Further improvements on the Ohio 1.0 using feedback from early adopters
Development of 5-inch payload capable drone The Wisconsin-1.0
Payload capabilities to include throw phones and chemical munitions
Indoor/Outdoor operations
Multiple cameras, zoom, thermal, and low light