Textron Aviation and Autonomy Software Company Merlin have unveiled a concept for an autonomous military cargo aircraft based on the Cessna SkyCourier, the companies said in a statement.

The concept, called the Cessna SkyCourier UX, pairs Textron's FAA-certified twin-engine turboprop with Merlin Pilot, Merlin's autonomous flight software. It was revealed on Sept 14 at the Air, Space & Cyber Conference at National Harbor, Maryland, the annual event of the Air & Space Forces Association, according to the release.

The companies said the concept explores a lower-cost, scalable way to supply forces spread across "contested" areas, meaning places where enemy action can disrupt or block normal supply routes. It is designed for the final leg of military supply networks, they said, and to fill a gap between small cargo drones and large transport aircraft.

Based on current design objectives, the aircraft would carry about 6,000 pounds (about 2,700 kg) of cargo, take up to three LD3 air cargo containers, and operate from unpaved runways, the release said. The companies said it would take off and land fully autonomously.

Because no crew would be on board, the companies said they are studying new layouts. One design under evaluation replaces the cockpit with extra cargo space and a large nose opening for loading. It would be combined with a kneeling ability, where the aircraft lowers itself for easier loading, and with integrated loading systems.

Possible uses listed in the release include moving cargo between hubs and outlying bases, supplying expeditionary bases, delivering repair parts and medical supplies, and serving island and remote airfields.

Textron said basing the concept on an aircraft already certified and in production means it can draw on existing manufacturing and global support networks.

Bob Gibbs, Textron Aviation's vice president for defense and special mission sales, said military planners are increasingly focused on sustaining forces across dispersed and contested environments. He said the concept applies innovative changes to real, certified products.

Merlin founder and chief executive Matt George said contested logistics needs "proven autonomy and a proven airframe". He said Merlin Pilot has flown hundreds of autonomous flights on Cessna Caravans, Beechcraft King Airs and other aircraft.

Merlin said its next work will include engineering studies and evaluations aimed at building confidence in autonomous and pilot-optional resupply operations. A model of the aircraft is on public display for the first time at the conference, at Booth 235.

Source: PR