Textron Aviation and Merlin have introduced a concept Cessna SkyCourier UX™ aircraft that combines Textron Aviation’s Cessna SkyCourier platform with Merlin’s aircraft-agnostic software solution for autonomous aviation.
The concept explores a new cost-efficient and scalable approach to addressing logistical challenges with supplying forces dispersed across contested operational environments when traditional supply routes are constrained, vulnerable or otherwise unavailable.
Introduced at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference, SkyCourier UX responds to growing military interest in sustaining forces operating from dispersed locations across increasingly complex operational environments, said Textron in a press release. “Built on the twin-engine turboprop Cessna SkyCourier platform, the aircraft concept is designed to provide an additional option for transporting cargo and critical supplies across the final leg of distribution networks.
“The SkyCourier UX concept explores how a medium-payload, fixed-wing aircraft with the ability to fly autonomously could help address logistics requirements through right-sized lift, offering commanders additional options while adding flexibility and preserving the force’s core mobility fleet,” said the company. “Designed to support cargo movement within a theater of operations, and with the ability to take off and land on unimproved runways, the SkyCourier UX could provide an option for sustaining operations when access becomes challenged. The Cessna SkyCourier UX aircraft concept is designed to occupy a space between small tactical cargo drones and large military transport aircraft. Not every logistics mission requires a large airlifter, and many autonomous cargo systems lack the payload capability required for operational sustainment missions. Leveraging the capabilities of the Cessna SkyCourier platform, the UX concept offers fully autonomous takeoff and landing alongside meaningful payload capacity, short-field performance and the flexibility needed to support intra-theater distribution and expeditionary operations.
“Beyond autonomous flight operations, the concept explores how the absence of an onboard crew could enable new cargo aircraft configurations optimized for logistics missions. Design concepts under evaluation include a forward-loading cargo architecture that replaces traditional cockpit volume with additional cargo space and provides direct access through a large nose opening. Combined with aircraft kneeling capability and integrated loading systems, these concepts are intended to improve cargo accessibility, maximize usable volume and support efficient operations from austere locations.”
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