Airdrop-Capable Hybrid Group 4 UAS for Contested Logistics: Enabling ACE for the DAF

The Pelican Cargo 2.0 project directly addresses the DAF's urgent need for enhanced contested logistics capabilities to ensure mission success in complex, high-risk battlespaces. Traditional distribution networks are inadequate, jeopardizing warfighter safety and strategic objectives. To combat this, Pyka will test and validate a first-of-its-kind attritable, hybrid propulsion, precision airdrop capable, multi-mission Group 4 UAS.Prior to commencing the D2P2, Pyka will complete the detailed design, prototyping, and integration of hybrid propulsion and precision airdrop systems, funded through internal investment, enabling a TRL 4 starting point. To validate the Pelican Cargo 2.0 during this SBIR program, we will conduct rigorous, phased testing procedures. The hybrid propulsion system will undergo comprehensive ground and flight trials to confirm performance metrics, including range, payload, and endurance targets outlined in Volume II. Reliability will be demonstrated through a minimum of 100 flight hours, encompassing operational flight envelope testing of both hybrid and all-electric flight modes. The precision airdrop system will be validated with a minimum of 10 trials, assessing accuracy and consistency across varying environmental conditions. Flight test performance metrics will be supported by thorough documentation of operational and maintenance procedures.Beyond logistics, the Pelican Cargo 2.0's open design architecture allows rapid reconfiguration for diverse mission sets, maximizing its value across the full spectrum of military operations. Potential functions include integrating advanced sensors and data processing for real-time ISR, waveform-agnostic communications, “mothership” of small UxS, or armed overwatch capabilities. Cargo 2.0 will provide commanders flexible and decisive courses of action during combat operations. These multi-domain capabilities are essential for effective command and control, coordinated missions, and informed decision-making. The platform's versatility and adaptability highlight its technical merit.The Cargo 2.0 solution is built upon Pyka’s Pelican Cargo 1.0 and Pelican Spray production UAS platforms. This significantly reduces developmental risk and accelerates transition to operational use, ensuring a timely and impactful contribution to the warfighter. The platform's design emphasizes ease of maintenance and support, and its cost-effectiveness and attritability optimizes lifecycle costs, making it suitable for widespread adoption across multiple MAJCOMs and joint forces.The Pelican Cargo 2.0 represents a revolutionary advancement in UAS technology, offering a resilient and adaptable Group 4 solution for the cost of a far less effective Group 3 platform. The enhanced hybrid propulsion specifications and airdrop capability grants the DAF a decisive tactical advantage for modern warfare and ensures operational resilience while executing ACE missions in this critical era of the Great Power Competition.