Piasecki Plans Production Model of Newly-Acquired Kargo UAV for 2026

Latest addition to the manufacturer’s portfolio complements its other vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) projects.

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 09:30 AM ET

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Jack Daleo

PiAC plans to develop Kaman’s Kargo UAV as a versatile vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft for military and commercial applications. [Courtesy: Piasecki Aircraft Corp.]

Key Takeaways:

Piasecki Aircraft Corp. (PiAC) has acquired Kaman Air Vehicles’ Kargo UAV program, including its intellectual property, assets, and personnel, to bolster its vertical flight portfolio.
The Kargo UAV is a medium-lift autonomous drone designed for military and commercial cargo logistics, with PiAC targeting a production-ready vehicle by 2026 and planning FAA certification.
This acquisition expands PiAC's capabilities, complementing existing projects and positioning the company to meet anticipated demand across defense, critical commercial sectors, and humanitarian aid with inherited military contracts.

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Piasecki Aircraft Corp. (PiAC) is adding a new dimension to its vertical flight portfolio.

The Pennsylvania-based company on Tuesday announced the acquisition of Kaman Air Vehicles’ autonomous Kargo UAV—a medium-lift uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for military and commercial cargo logistics—and the intellectual property, assets, and personnel related to the program. Its goal is to field a production-ready vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) vehicle by 2026. PiAC will also pursue FAA certification to expand the market for the aircraft.