Piasecki Aircraft Corporation has launched the KARGO II vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) logistics drone, an upgraded version of the KARGO UAV medium-lift unmanned aerial vehicle.
The new model raises the bar with a payload capacity of over 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms), more than double the earlier version’s 500 to 800 pounds (227 to 363 kilograms).
With enhanced range, airspeed, and mission flexibility, the KARGO II features a shaft-driven transmission optimized for heavier loads, as well as larger rotors for greater performance.
The KARGO II is a production-standard configuration, developed through a spiral approach and built on autonomous lift and flight control trials with the US Army and Marine Corps.
“KARGO II reflects Piasecki’s commitment to rapidly advancing autonomous vertical lift capabilities,” said John Piasecki, CEO of Piasecki Aircraft Corporation.
“With the launch of this first major development spiral, we’ve created a more capable, scalable solution for autonomous logistics, designed to meet the evolving requirements of defense and commercial customers alike.”
Production Timeline
Piasecki expects KARGO II to enter the market in late 2027, following production and certification milestones.
Combined demand for KARGO UAV and KARGO II has reportedly exceeded 300 units across various sectors, some aimed at replacing traditional helicopters that are costly to operate and challenging to sustain.
Initial manufacturing will take place at the company’s Heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.
Additional program partners and supply chain contributors will be named in the coming months, as Piasecki positions KARGO II for domestic and international operators seeking scalable, uncrewed logistics solutions for high-risk missions.
