Systems for configuring components of a UAV

An unmanned aerial vehicle system (UAV) 100 includes a mounting frame onto which at least a payload 30 is affixed and further includes a plurality of fuel cell stacks 50-n operable in a predefined configuration and wherein each of the plurality of stacks is housed in a separate package. The UAV also includes one or more tanks 60 that are configured to supply hydrogen to the plurality of stacks. A propulsion system is configured to receive an output power generated from the plurality of stacks. A power controller 40 is configured to couple the plurality of stacks in the predefined configuration. The propulsion system may comprise motors 70 driving rotors 80.