Piasecki Aircraft Corporation has launched a new autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. KARGO II is a larger-capacity version of the KARGO UAV medium-lift uncrewed aerial system acquired from Kaman Air Vehicles in April 2025. Featuring payload drivetrain, and performance upgrades, KARGO II is designed for both military and commercial operations.
KARGO II retains the compact form factor of KARGO UAV while delivering increased payload capacity – from approximately 500-800 lbs (227-363kg) to over 1,500lbs (680kg). The system features a new shaft-driven transmission along with larger rotors.
Commercial availability for KARGO II in both domestic and international markets is planned for late 2027, subject to production and certification progress. Piasecki says initial demand for KARGO UAV and KARGO II exceeds 300 vehicles from sectors such as energy, logistics, disaster response and remote infrastructure support.
KARGO II will be initially manufactured at Piasecki’s state-of-the-art Heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Additional program partners and supply chain contributors will be announced in the coming months.
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