New autonomous logistics drone takes flight with 150kg capacity

British drone manufacturer Windracers has unveiled its latest self-flying cargo aircraft, the ULTRA MK2, marking a significant advancement in autonomous logistics technology.

The versatile Windracers ULTRA platform performs detection, delivery and cargo-dropping missions across multiple sectors.

It serves high-profile organisations including Royal Mail, the Royal Navy and British Antarctic Survey.

The new drone features a 10-metre wingspan and twin 50 hp Hirth F23 engines, doubles the power output of its predecessor whilst delivering a 50 per cent increase in payload capacity.

The ULTRA MK2 can transport up to 150kg of cargo and operates with reduced fuel costs, positioning it as a cost-effective solution for middle-mile logistics.

What sets the ULTRA MK2 apart is its ability to operate autonomously in various conditions, including night-time and fog, without requiring a remote pilot.

The aircraft utilises Windracers' proprietary autopilot system and mission control interface, enabling simplified route planning and monitoring.

Simon Thompson, Group CEO, of Windracers said: "From eliminating the need for a pilot to developing a multi-mission platform that is dependable and easy to use and maintain, our ultimate goal is to bring down the cost for the end user."

"In ULTRA MK2, we have halved our operational fuel cost per kilogram and we will find even more efficiency in the future for our customers."

The drone's versatility has attracted diverse organisations, from humanitarian aid to environmental research.

NORCE plans to employ the aircraft for Antarctic climate monitoring, whilst Aviation Sans Frontieres will integrate it into humanitarian aid delivery operations.

The ULTRA platform has already proven its capabilities through extensive testing, completing hundreds of thousands of kilometres of autonomous flights beyond visual line of sight.

It currently operates in Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States, supporting various missions including military resupply and environmental protection.

The launch coincides with the government's establishment of a Regulatory Innovation Office, aimed at accelerating the adoption of new technologies, including cargo drones, in the logistics sector.