Provided here is a UAV launcher generally comprising a launcher frame, first rail guide, second rail guide, and a conveyor system comprising a conveyor, where the first rail guide, second rail guide, and some portion of the conveyor are typically substantially parallel, and where the first and second rail guide typically extend beyond the driver wheel of the conveyor system in a launching direction. The driver wheel and driven wheel of the conveyor system rotate on axes generally perpendicular to the first and second rail guide. A DC motor is coupled to the driver wheel and generates rotation of the driver wheel, and correspondingly governs the linear velocity of the conveyor. A motor controller is configured to control the RPM of the DC motor using a motor speed profile and a wedge interface coupled to the transmission drive motivates a loaded UAV to a launching velocity such that the UAV achieves airborne operation.