Rotor Technologies, Inc., a UK-based company, has announced the launch of two new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the 2025 model year: Airtruck, a utility UAV with a payload capacity exceeding 1,000 pounds, and Sprayhawk, an agricultural UAV with a 110-gallon capacity.
Both aircraft, based on the Robinson R44 full-scale helicopter, boast a maximum take-off weight of 2,500 pounds, making them the largest civilian drones available for purchase globally. This achievement positions Rotor Technologies as a leader in the burgeoning drone market.
The initial pricing for both the Airtruck and Sprayhawk is set below £1 million, making them a potentially attractive proposition for businesses seeking to embrace the efficiency and cost-saving benefits of drone technology.
Rotor Technologies and Robinson Helicopters have collaborated closely on the development and certification of the new UAVs. A static pre-production prototype of the Airtruck, previously known as the R550X, was showcased at Heli-Expo earlier this year, generating significant industry interest.
"With the introduction of the Airtruck and Skyhawk, we are excited to bring drone manufacturing back to the UK, demonstrating our commitment to innovation and surpassing global competitors," stated Rotor CEO Hector Xu.
"These aircraft offer unprecedented capabilities that will transform operations for drone operators, addressing their long-standing desire for extended flight times and increased payload capacities."
The first Sprayhawk production aircraft has been completed and is undergoing ground testing prior to its delivery to an agricultural partner in the US Midwest later this year. The initial batch of production Sprayhawks will be delivered to early access partners throughout spring 2025, with commercial spraying operations expected to begin during the 2025 corn season.
Rotor Technologies is now accepting orders from customers in the UK and Brazil for the 2025 model year Airtrucks and Sprayhawks. Delivery slots are still available for late 2025 and early 2026. However, the first production run for 2025 will be limited to 15 Sprayhawks and 10 Airtrucks.
For orders placed before 15 December 2024, the introductory price for the Airtruck is £675,000 and £780,000 for the Sprayhawk.
Ben Frank, Rotor's Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the significant market impact of Airtruck and Sprayhawk, emphasizing the increasing adoption of UAVs in crucial industrial applications.
"We believe that the Sprayhawk and Airtruck offer the ideal solution for UK farmers, aerial applicators, and the construction and logistics industries," said Frank.
"Many existing drones on the market are unlikely to stand the test of time. The demand for larger and more reliable aircraft is evident, and our new slogan, 'Big Drones for Tough Jobs' reflects our commitment to providing robust solutions."
This press release was prepared and distributed by Rotor Technologies.
