Kaman is developing a new version of the unmanned K-MAX.

Kaman Aerospace

Kaman Aerospace is developing a new generation of its unmanned K-MAX, with the company saying it expects to offer kits for new production and existing aircraft in 2020.

Kaman also said it is, “exploring opportunities to support the US Marine Corps in developing couse versions of autonomous aerial technologies that will have both commercial and military applications”.

Kaman said the next generation unmanned K-MAX will offer, “unmatched readiness and efficiency no matter the requirement”. Roles such as night-time aerial firefighting, resupplying troops in austere environments or delivering critical supplies in support of humanitarian missions are all envisaged for the system.

The unmanned K-MAX supported the US Marine Corps in Afghanistan on combat resupply and logistical support missions from 2011, moving over 4.5 million pounds (more than 2 million kg) of cargo to remote outposts. Certified in 1994, the single-engine K-MAX is a rugged low-maintenance aircraft with a distinctive counter-rotating rotor system optimised for external load operations.