Aerospace startup Pyka has unveiled the DropShip, a long-range, heavy-lift unmanned aerial system (UAS) designed to support a wide range of military missions.
Building on the company’s autonomous flight technology and the success of its Pelican 2 electric crop-protection aircraft, the DropShip represents Pyka’s entry into the defense sector, expanding its scope beyond agriculture and logistics. Its first flight is slated for early 2026.
Developed to deliver critical supplies in austere or contested environments, DropShip features a precision airdrop capability that can release payloads within 150 feet (46 meters) of target coordinates. The aircraft has a ferry range exceeding 3,500 miles (5,633 kilometers) and a payload capacity of 550 pounds (249 kilograms).
Its reconfigurable mission system supports ISR payloads, communication relays, expeditionary power modules, and even mothership functions for smaller drones. An all-electric, low-signature flight mode—offering about 45 minutes of operation—enhances its performance in stealth or noise-sensitive missions.
A modular, open-architecture mission computer enables plug-and-play integration of new systems, ensuring adaptability for future defense applications.
