Blueprint

AEROSPACE

BWB cargo drone unveiled

San Diego-based start-up Volatus Aerospace has announced that it has secured the first production delivery slot for its Natilus N3.8T heavyweight BWB cargo UAV, with $6bn in advance purchase commitments. The twin-turboprop blended wing body Natilus features a range of over 1,000nm and can carry LD3 containers with a payload of 8,500lb. Volatus says that the BWB design gives 60% more cargo volume than other aircraft of the same weight, while reducing fuel costs by 50%. First flight is expected in 2023 with first deliveries in 2025.

Mouse-piloted freighter

The autonomous cargo UAV will be controlled by an FAA-certifiable autopilot, says Volatus – allowing airlines to scale up operations, even with future pilot shortages.

First of a family

The company envisages that the turboprop-powered Natilus N3.8T would be the first of a BWB cargo drone family, with larger jet-powered versions able to carry 60t, 100t and 150t, respectively.

Specifications

Range 1,000nm
MTOW 19,000lb
Payload 8,500lb
Cruising speed 220kt

Turboprop power

Twin rear pusher turboprops would give the Natilus a cruising speed of 220kt, while reducing its CO₂ emissions per lb by 50%, according to Volatus.

Container capacity

With a voluminous interior, the Natilus would be able to carry a load of standard LD3 containers with a payload of 8,500lb. The cargo bay features an innovative ‘diamond’ configuration where the containers are rotated to 45°, allowing more loading positions for a smaller aircraft size. Loading and unloading would be through a two-piece large side cargo door.