The U.S. Marine Corps is actively integrating unmanned aerial systems into its logistics operations, with the T150/TRV150 cargo drone emerging as a pivotal asset in enhancing battlefield resupply capabilities.
The TRV150 is a versatile, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) drone designed for autonomous or remote-controlled delivery of essential supplies such as food, water, medical equipment, and ammunition directly to frontline units. It boasts a cruise speed of 108 km/h (67 mph), a maximum range of 70 km (43 miles), and can carry payloads up to 68 kg (150 lbs). Equipped with eight propellers and electric motors powered by easily replaceable batteries, the drone ensures quick turnaround times for continuous operations. Its fixed skid landing gear and redundant avionics enhance safety and reliability. Notably, the TRV150 has demonstrated operational effectiveness across diverse environments, including rain, gusty winds, deserts, and Arctic conditions. Its compact, foldable design allows for transport in a medium-sized protective case, facilitating ease of deployment by a single operator.
The strategic deployment of cargo drones like the TRV150 addresses the inherent risks associated with traditional resupply methods involving manned trucks or helicopters, which are vulnerable to enemy attacks. By employing unmanned systems, the Marine Corps enhances operational efficiency and reduces personnel exposure to danger. The TRV150 can operate autonomously via waypoint navigation or under remote control, delivering supplies day or night. Cargo can be unloaded upon landing or air-dropped during flight, providing tactical flexibility.
The Marine Corps’ commitment to integrating unmanned logistics is evident in its plan to equip all logistics battalions with Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft Systems (TRUAS) by 2028, allocating three to six drones per unit. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of creating lighter, more agile units capable of rapid response in dynamic combat scenarios. The TRV150’s development stems from Malloy Aeronautics’ earlier hoverbike concepts, which evolved into practical unmanned cargo delivery systems. In April 2023, Malloy Aeronautics and SURVICE Engineering secured a production contract with the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to produce nearly 200 TRV drones, following their success in the Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System (TRUAS) fly-off competition at Yuma Proving Ground in 2019.
The U.S. Army is also exploring heavy-lift vertical takeoff and landing (HVTOL) cargo drones capable of carrying at least 800 lbs over 100 miles. Contracts have been awarded to teams like Near Earth Autonomy-Kaman and Piasecki Aircraft to demonstrate such unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, companies like Kaman Air Vehicles are developing autonomous medium-lift logistics UAVs, such as the KARGO UAV, designed to carry up to 800 pounds in austere environments.
The adoption of cargo drones represents a transformative shift in military logistics, offering rapid, flexible, and secure delivery of supplies while minimizing risks to personnel. As these systems continue to evolve, they are poised to become integral components of modern military operations, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of forces in diverse operational theaters.
Photo: U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Phillip McLaughlin, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, performs a safety inspection after securing water-filled jerrycans to a Tactical Resupply Vehicle 150 (TRV150) unmanned aircraft system during Mountain Training Exercise 2-25. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)
Source: Army Recognition