Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has announced that Elroy Air, a developer of autonomous aerial cargo systems for middle-mile logistics and military resupply, has selected Kratos as Elroy Air’s exclusive U.S. manufacturing partner for the Chaparral in a new five-year strategic manufacturing agreement to accelerate expected high-volume production of the Chaparral hybrid-electric autonomous vertical takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) cargo drone.
Chaparral is designed to autonomously transport up to 300 pounds of cargo over 300 miles, affordably bridging critical logistics gaps for military resupply, disaster relief, and commercial express delivery, said the companies in a press release. “The vehicle’s unique hybrid-electric powertrain enables rapid refuelling, extra power for recharging batteries and powering payloads in cruise flight, and longer-range cargo transport than similar-sized battery-electric aircraft.
“Kratos will perform initial production of Chaparral at their Sacramento, California aircraft production facility and over time, transition to high-rate production at Kratos’ facilities in Oklahoma City. These efforts are expected to bring aerospace jobs to both regions and expand the current supply chain infrastructure that includes many other states across our nation. The first production Chaparral aircraft are planned to be built in 2026.”
“Kratos’ proven ability to produce large, composite drones in high volumes makes them the perfect partner to help us scale production of the Chaparral,” said Dave Merrill, Elroy Air’s Founder and Executive Chairman. “Our customers are eager to expand their operations with our systems, and Kratos’ deep production expertise and track record will enable us to deliver robust, world-class Chaparral vehicles in high volumes.”
For more information
https://elroyair.com/company/news/press-releases/kratos-us-manufacturer-for-elroy-air-chaparral-drone/
(Image: Kratos)