DJI Dock 3: Features, pricing and availability

The DJI Dock 3 is the next-generation “Drone in a Box” solution designed by DJI, the world leader in civil drones. Designed for demanding professional applications, the DJI Dock 3 enables fully automated aerial operations, 24/7, even in the most extreme environments. The new dock stands out in particular for its vehicle-mountability, offering unprecedented flexibility for mobile missions such as public safety, emergency response or infrastructure inspection.

Equipped with the new DJI Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD drones, the DJI Dock 3 offers enhanced performance, with extended flight times of up to 54 minutes on the move and 47 minutes hovering. Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, the DJI Dock 3 boasts exceptional robustness thanks to its IP56 protection rating, and can operate efficiently in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 50°C.

By combining this superior performance with the intelligent functions of DJI FlightHub 2 software, this solution revolutionizes remote operations, significantly reducing operational time and labor costs. DJI thus continues its commitment to pushing back the boundaries of technology, offering ever more reliable solutions tailored to real user needs.

In this article, we’ll explore in detail the various technical features of the DJI Dock 3, the compatible drones, and the advanced operation of the FlightHub 2 software. We’ll also cover the practicalities of using it in Europe, the importance of its dedicated carrying case and the benefits of the DJI Care Enterprise Plus service, so that you have all the information you need to fully understand the benefits of this innovative solution.

DJI Dock 3: a powerful mobile solution for every situation

The DJI Dock 3 marks a real turning point in the field of automated aerial operations. With innovative features designed for intensive use, this “Drone-in-a-box” system surpasses its predecessors in every technical and practical respect.

A significant evolution since previous versions

Since the launch of the Dock 1 in April 2023, DJI has constantly evolved its solutions to meet the needs of professionals. After the Dock 2 in March 2024, the DJI Dock 3 represents the third generation of this revolutionary concept, with major advances in robustness, speed and flexibility of use.

Optimum performance in all environments

With the DJI Dock 3, you have a tool capable of mastering all environmental conditions:

Weatherproof: Designed to operate between -30°C and 50°C, the DJI Dock 3 is rated IP56 for the dock and IP55 for the associated Matrice 4D drone. Its enhanced resistance ensures reliable operation even in the most demanding environments.

Improved wind resistance: thanks to new take-off logic and a quick check system, the DJI Dock 3 can take off and land safely in winds of up to 12 m/s (~27 mph).

Operational speed and reliability

The DJI Dock 3 is optimized for quick action in the field:

Rapid take-off in 10 seconds: The take-off logic has been refined to eliminate the need to wait for the propellers to be checked, enabling take-off in just 10 seconds – a crucial advantage in emergency situations.
Enhanced reliability thanks to anti-vibration design: All internal components, including the air-conditioning system and back-up batteries, have been designed with rigorously tested anti-vibration mechanisms to ensure operation under extreme conditions.

Mobility and flexible deployment

One of the major advances of the DJI Dock 3 is its perfect adaptation to mobile deployments:

Mobile mounting: The new vehicle-mounting system secures the drone and gimbal during travel, preventing damage during mobile operations.
Remote RTK calibration: Thanks to FlightHub 2, it is now possible to remotely calibrate the Dock’s RTK position, facilitating continuous deployment on the move.
Precise tilt control: the DJI Dock 3 can measure the tilt of the deployment site in real time, preventing take-off when the tilt exceeds 5 degrees, guaranteeing mission safety.

Enhanced capabilities thanks to advanced accessories

The DJI Dock 3 benefits from a range of high-performance accessories that extend its operational possibilities:

D-RTK 3 relay module By positioning this relay high up, you can significantly improve RTK signal quality and overall coverage of the mission site.

Obstacle detection module: This additional module enables the drone to avoid fine obstacles such as 12 mm cables at speeds of up to 15 m/s, ideal for complex or poorly lit environments.

Precise, automated landing

The DJI Dock 3’s landing procedure is remarkably precise, thanks to a technology combining SLAM (Simultaneous Localization And Mapping) and visual recognition of the landing marks on the Dock:

During takeoff, the obstacle avoidance camera records the surrounding area to memorize landmarks.
During landing, these points are recognized by the drone for precise alignment.
A clear marking (“H” and white triangles) on the dock is used as a visual reference to guide the drone precisely back to the dock.

Varied, efficient usage scenarios

The DJI Dock 3 is ideal for a variety of professional use cases:

First response: The drone can be rapidly deployed at the scene of incidents such as fires or accidents, providing immediate and effective surveillance.
Flexible asset inspection: Perfect for mobile inspection of multiple infrastructures.
Multi-site monitoring: Ideal for construction or industrial companies managing several remote sites simultaneously.

Extended operating autonomy thanks to dual dock

If continuous operational coverage is required, two docks can be installed on the same vehicle, enabling smooth rotation between two UAVs. The drone’s flight time is then greater than the charging time required, guaranteeing uninterrupted operation.

Optimized connectivity and easy installation

The DJI Dock 3 can now be activated and configured simply from an Android device, eliminating the need for a dedicated remote control. This simplified process facilitates operations in the field, considerably reducing set-up time.

The advanced performance of Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD UAVs

DJI Dock 3-compatible drones, namely the DJI Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD, have been specifically developed to meet the rigorous demands of professional missions, offering state-of-the-art technical features that enhance their efficiency, robustness and versatility in the field.

Improved design and performance

The Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD drones feature a rugged IP55-certified design, guaranteeing excellent protection against dust and water intrusion. They have a total weight of 1850 g, with a maximum take-off capacity of 2090 g, offering the possibility of integrating various accessories useful for specific missions.

These drones boast impressive autonomy, with a maximum flight time of 54 minutes, enabling extended missions without interruption. They can operate in a wide temperature range from -30°C to 50°C, ensuring operational reliability even in the most extreme conditions.

Long-range transmission and enhanced reliability

Thanks to the DJI O4+ Enterprise transmission system, Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD UAVs benefit from an exceptional maximum range of 12 km in CE mode. This extended transmission range considerably enhances operational efficiency for long-distance missions, guaranteeing stable connectivity and superior data transmission quality.

Advanced imaging technology

Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD are equipped with advanced imaging systems featuring several high-resolution sensors:

Main camera: a 20 megapixel 4/3 CMOS sensor with a lens adjustable between f/2.8 and f/11, equivalent to a 24 mm focal length. This camera includes a mechanical shutter and built-in distortion correction, suitable for fast, precise captures with a minimum shooting interval of 0.5 seconds.
Secondary cameras: two 1/1.3-inch, 48-megapixel CMOS cameras (equivalent to focal lengths of 24 mm and 70 mm), to capture high-resolution images suitable for a variety of inspection and surveillance scenarios.
Telephoto: a 1/1.5-inch, 48-megapixel CMOS sensor with a 168mm equivalent focal length, offering exceptional, precise zooming capability, four times greater than the previous Matrice 3D model.

For the Matrice 4TD model, a thermal camera with maximum resolution of 1280 × 1024 (with infrared super-resolution) completes these capabilities. It enables high-precision thermal and night-time inspections, essential for public safety, rescue or industrial surveillance missions.

Integrated laser rangefinder for optimum inspection

The laser rangefinder integrated into Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD drones offers an impressive maximum range of 1800 meters, with a remarkable accuracy of 0.2 + 0.005 × D (m). This feature is particularly useful for quickly obtaining precise coordinates of a remote target point.

A notable feature of the Matrice 4TD drone is its unique ability to tilt its telephoto camera to an angle of up to 80°, enabling detailed inspections of complex infrastructures such as bridges, towers or tall structures.

Intelligent accessories and operational versatility

DJI Dock 3-compatible drones offer greater flexibility thanks to their compatibility with a variety of accessories:

Obstacle detection module: this advanced module significantly enhances flight safety, particularly in dark or complex environments such as power substations or dense urban areas.
DJI AS1 loudspeaker: essential for public safety missions, this loudspeaker can transmit real-time messages at significant range, facilitating emergency communications.
DJI AL1 headlamp: with an illumination range of 100 meters, this headlamp offers enhanced visibility when working at night or in low-light conditions.

Integrated relay for extended missions

The Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD UAVs feature an innovative on-board relay function. This feature extends the operational range of missions by acting as a relay point between a main drone and a second drone, enabling the latter to cover even greater distances during inspections or rescue missions.

Pack Matrice 4D / 4TD with DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise

These drones can be purchased in a stand-alone configuration comprising :

A drone Matrice 4TD or 4D.
A DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise remote control.
A 240W AC adapter and a fast-charging hub for simultaneous charging of up to 3 batteries.
A set of low-noise, anti-icing propellers optimized for cold, quiet environments.
Sturdy carrying case for up to four batteries.

This comprehensive offering guarantees users a high level of operational autonomy, enhanced safety and maximum flexibility for a variety of intervention scenarios.

DJI FlightHub 2: intelligent, advanced mission management with DJI Dock 3

The DJI Dock 3 fully integrates FlightHub 2, an innovative software package that considerably improves the management of aerial missions. Thanks to its intelligent detection and automation capabilities, FlightHub 2 enables the Dock 3 to push the limits of autonomy and operational efficiency even further.

Intelligent detection and real-time alerts

DJI FlightHub 2 offers an advanced intelligent recognition function, capable of automatically detecting different types of object: people, vehicles or boats. As soon as an object is detected by the drone, an alert is immediately sent to operators via the FlightHub 2 platform. This feature enables :

Immediate response to critical events.
Reduced need for manual intervention.
Increased security at sensitive sites.

Automatic target tracking by the drone’s camera

FlightHub 2’s intelligent technology enables the DJI Dock 3 drone to automatically track moving objects or targets via the on-board camera. This feature ensures precise, continuous tracking, ideal for scenarios such as :

Monitoring moving vehicles.
Monitoring suspicious activity during security missions.
Dynamic inspection of hard-to-reach areas or infrastructures.

Integrating intelligent recognition into automated routes

FlightHub 2 enables intelligent recognition to be integrated directly into the drone’s pre-programmed routes. This means that DJI Dock 3 drones can carry out autonomous missions while automatically detecting objects, triggering alerts and capturing essential data when a feature of interest is identified. This process significantly reduces the need for manual interaction, optimizing human and technical resources.

Advanced personalization with customized algorithmic models

One of the major innovations of FlightHub 2 is the ability for developers to create and deploy their own object recognition models on DJI Dock 3 drones. With 10 TOPS (Tera Operations per Second) of on-board computing power on the Matrice 4D series, DJI provides developers with the tools to :

Download a source file from the DJI developer platform.
Train a detection model based on specific images.
Validate and quantify model performance.
Distribute the customized model to targeted UAVs, online or offline, for optimal integration into operational missions.

This extensive customization capability enables companies and institutions to respond precisely to their specific needs.

Seamless integration of third-party algorithms with FlightHub 2

FlightHub 2 offers seamless integration of third-party algorithms. This advanced functionality offers unique flexibility, enabling :

Set up a third-party server address to share the video stream captured by the drone in real time.
Receive and display the results of analyses performed by these external algorithms directly in the FlightHub interface.
View detection results live in FlightHub’s virtual cockpit.

This integration opens up new prospects for companies wishing to use advanced analysis solutions specific to their fields of activity.

Enhanced visualization and intelligent zoom

FlightHub 2 also enhances the user experience with advanced visualization features, including :

Fast, precise zooming in on objects of interest.
A clear, intuitive interface, far beyond the limits of a traditional radio control experience.

This ease of use makes complex operations accessible to all levels of operator, boosting overall mission performance.

Optimized compliance with European standards

The DJI Dock 3 is specifically designed to meet the stringent requirements of the European regulatory framework for remote aerial operations. Thanks to its compliance with European standards, it enables professional users to operate legally and safely within the European Union.

EU C6 certification: Optimum compliance

DJI Dock 3 and the Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD drones are EU C6-certified.

Comprehensive documentation for easy compliance

DJI is making available to DJI Dock 3 users, free of charge, a complete set of documents to simplify compliance with current European regulations. This comprehensive documentation, entitled “EU Template List”, includes the following items:

User manual: a comprehensive step-by-step guide to the safe and optimum use of the DJI Dock 3 and Matrice 4D/Matrice 4TD drones.
Maintenance manual: describing precisely the protocols required to ensure the equipment’s continued smooth operation.
Template ConOps (Concept of Operations): a detailed document template to describe precisely the operational concept of planned missions.
Template SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment): an analysis template for determining the specific risks associated with each mission and the appropriate means of managing them.
Compliance checklist: a detailed checklist making it easy to verify that all regulatory and technical requirements have been met prior to each assignment.
Training syllabus: a comprehensive basis for the proper training of pilots and technical teams in operational protocols.

This turnkey approach ensures seamless integration of European standards into the day-to-day operation of the DJI Dock 3, while significantly reducing the time and effort needed to comply with legal requirements.

Precise control of operating volumes

The DJI Dock 3 offers advanced management of operational volumes through three key zones:

Operational volume: space precisely defined for UAV flight during conventional missions.
Contingency volume: additional space around the operational volume to handle unforeseen or emergency situations.
Flight geography: precise consideration of the terrain and any obstacles in the area of operation, to plan missions with precision and avoid any risk of accident.

These volumes can be precisely parameterized to optimize mission safety while complying with the most stringent European regulations.

Advanced geocaging for maximum safety on critical missions

Thanks to its advanced Geocaging system, the DJI Dock 3 enhances operational safety by strictly limiting the drone’s movements within a predefined zone. This zone includes progressive levels of alerts and automated actions:

Initial warning: immediately informs the operator if the drone approaches the authorized geographical limits.
Automatic braking (Brake ): automatically slows down the drone to prevent it from leaving the authorized zone.
Final warning: alerts the operator to a critical situation requiring immediate action.
FTS (Flight Termination System) activation: in extreme cases where the drone is in danger of overstepping defined limits, the FTS is automatically activated to prevent any uncontrolled exit.

These features ensure that drones will always remain within safe limits, even in the most critical scenarios, contributing to the safe and responsible use of European airspace.

Independent control link system (UK & EU)

The DJI Dock 3 benefits from an independent control system specially dedicated to the UK and European Union regions. This system uses advanced Ocusync 4 technology with a complementary 4G network transmission option, ensuring reliable connectivity and maximum responsiveness even in complex environmental conditions. This cutting-edge technology enables operators to maintain precise control over UAVs in all circumstances, avoiding potential interference and ensuring stable communications throughout missions.

Optimized emergency landing

In the event of extreme emergency, the DJI Dock 3 allows immediate landing outside the dock. However, to guarantee maximum safety, the system is configured to automatically prevent any attempt to land in predefined “No-Landing Zones”, such as freeways or busy urban areas, even when the drone’s battery reaches a critical level. This feature is a real safety net, protecting people and property in the complex environments typical of European territories.

DJI Dock 3 real-life use cases

The DJI Dock 3 is used in the field to meet a wide range of professional needs, from emergency services to environmental patrols and intelligent construction site management. Here are several case studies demonstrating the real performance and benefits of the DJI Dock 3 in operational conditions.

Case 1: DJI Dock 3 as emergency first responder – Kent County Sheriff (USA)

The Kent region, located in the U.S. state of Michigan, covers an area of 872 square miles and is home to around 658,000 residents, including the city of Grand Rapids, the state’s second-largest city. The county sheriff’s department has been using drones since 2018 to optimize its interventions.

Thanks to the DJI Dock 3, the Sheriff’s Department has considerably improved its responsiveness to emergencies:

Ultra-fast take-off time: the drone takes off in just 10 seconds, enabling immediate intervention and providing a crucial aerial view for decision-making on site and at HQ.
Operational flexibility: with the “FlyTo” function, the drone can instantly fly to new addresses to respond to multiple emergency calls simultaneously.
Greater efficiency in extreme conditions: able to operate in temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) and in high winds thanks to its enhanced robustness (IP56/IP55), the drone considerably widens law enforcement agencies’ operating windows.
Quick, intuitive control: thanks to the Mouselook function, the operator simply controls the camera by moving the mouse, enabling fast, precise tracking. Intuitive zoom provides an immediate, detailed view of targeted areas.

This strategic deployment of the DJI Dock 3 not only allows for better allocation of human resources, but also for unprecedented speed in emergency response.

Case 2: Automated port surveillance and marine animal protection – Thailand

In Thailand, the DJI Dock 3 plays an essential role in environmental monitoring and marine conservation, notably through automated tracking of dugongs (vulnerable marine mammals), seagrass beds and boat traffic in sensitive coastal areas.

Using DJI Dock 3 and DJI FlightHub 2 together allows for efficient tracking with a clear, multi-step procedure:

Advanced mission planning: prior definition of alert thresholds and actions triggered when abnormal situations are detected.
Intelligent automated routes: the drone automatically detects targets of interest and takes immediately usable photos.
Rapid manual intervention: operators can take manual control of the drone at any time to zoom in and instantly share the precise coordinates of points of interest.
Reactivity in the field: information collected in real time is shared with teams in the field for rapid, efficient decision-making.

This automated solution enables local authorities to better protect the marine environment, while saving valuable time and human resources.

Case 3: Intelligent management of demolition sites – Enel Spain

Enel, a major Italian multinational in the energy sector, has chosen to use the DJI Dock 3 as part of its global carbon neutrality strategy, in particular to supervise the demolition of 14 traditional energy plants in Spain, at the As Pontes thermal site.

The operational objectives were :

Efficient management with limited resources: drones regularly carry out automatic aerial mapping of the site, enabling site managers to precisely monitor progress.
Automated benchmarking with DJI FlightHub 2: the data collected is processed and compared on a regular basis, providing a clear picture of how the job is progressing over time, ensuring rigorous management of schedule and budget.
Simplified detailed inspection: the low-latency “Mouselook” function enables operators to perform detailed, intuitive analysis of specific areas of the worksite, thanks to precise zooming in on points of interest, facilitating annotations and rapid decision-making.

This use of the DJI Dock 3 has demonstrated an exceptional ability to improve the management of complex industrial projects while reducing environmental impact and operational costs.

DJI Dock 3 – After-sales service, DJI Care Enterprise and maintenance

The DJI Dock 3 offers more than just technical performance and compatibility with Matrice 4D/4TD drones. DJI has designed a comprehensive after-sales service package, including DJI Care Enterprise and a regular maintenance program, guaranteeing long-term durability and operational safety.

DJI Care Enterprise Plus: comprehensive coverage from the very first year

All DJI Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD drones delivered with a DJI Dock 3 automatically benefit from one year’s free DJI Care Enterprise Plus service, with no manual activation or code required. This premium service is available in 27 EU countries, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Iceland, Monaco, Mexico and more.

Key benefits of DJI Care Enterprise Plus:

Repairs free of charge up to the amount covered.
Up to two battery replacements per year.
Free return shipping, even for water damage.
Coverage of the main parts: drone, nacelle, camera, propellers, radio control and charging hub.

After the first year, the service can be renewed up to two times, for a total coverage of three consecutive years.

D-RTK 3 Relay: also covered by DJI Care

The D-RTK 3 Relay – Fixed version is also eligible for DJI Care Enterprise Basic or Plus (recommended version). Coverage includes:

Low-cost replacement.
DJI Care express shipping.
Unlimited repairs based on insured value.

Please note: unlike the drone, the D-RTK 3 Relay is not covered free of charge for the first year. It must be purchased and activated separately.

Support for collisions with obstacles

DJI offers a unique policy: if a Matrice 4D/4TD drone equipped with the obstacle detection module suffers an accident during an automatic mission, and all safety conditions are met (GNSS active, favorable weather conditions, functional sensors), then the repair is free of charge. This reinforces confidence in our equipment for critical missions.

A structured and demanding after-sales service

DJI also requires that only Dock 3-certified distributors, who have signed a Dock service agreement and obtained Dock 3 certification (Dock 2 temporarily valid until June 30, 2025), can sell and support the product. This framework ensures that end-users benefit from competent, responsive local service.

DJI Dock 3 price and availability

The DJI Dock 3 is a high-end solution designed exclusively for public and private sector professionals wishing to automate their drone missions. Given its technical complexity, advanced capabilities and installation requirements, the DJI Dock 3 is available only from DJI Enterprise certified distributors, trained and authorized to install and support the product.

Price guide

The final price of the DJI Dock 3 depends on several factors:

The associated drone type (DJI Matrice 4D or 4TD).
Connectivity options (D-RTK 3 Relay, 4G dongle, etc.).
Special accessories (headlamps, speakers, additional sensors).
Services included (DJI Care Enterprise, installation, maintenance).
Site conditions (fixed or mobile, restricted or unrestricted area).

💡 As a rough guide, a complete package with DJI Dock 3, DJI Matrice 4TD, RC Plus, and professional accessories can start at around €25,000 ex VAT, with variations depending on individual requirements. This price generally includes installation, training and one year of DJI Care Enterprise Plus support.

Availability

The DJI Dock 3 is available in selected countries including :

Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg

👉 In Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, the solution is only available through certified partners such as Drone Parts Centerwhich also offers :

On-site demonstrations in Nivelles, Belgium.
Assistance with regulatory procedures (SORA, ConOps, etc.).
Local after-sales service with parts available on short notice.

To find out the exact price for your project, we advise you to request a customized quotation after analyzing your needs and your operating site.

📩 For all inquiries, please contact the team via our contact page