PteroDynamics Secures Major Contract for Next-Gen P5 Transwing VTOL UAS

PteroDynamics has significantly broadened its Blue Water Logistics UAS (BWUAS) contract, focusing on the creation and testing of a deployable 330-pound P5 Transwing® VTOL system, specifically engineered for the transport of essential repair materials.

Contract Expansion with the U.S. Navy

This latest agreement with the U.S. naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) represents the sixth and most ample enhancement of PteroDynamics’ initial BWUAS prototype contract established in 2021. The new initiative aims to develop a more advanced aircraft compared to the P4 Transwing VTOL UAS, which successfully completed sea trials during the RIMPAC 2024 exercises.

specifications and Capabilities of the P5 Transwing

The upcoming autonomous P5 Transwing UAS is designed to achieve a maximum takeoff weight of 330 pounds,with a minimum operational range of 400 nautical miles while carrying a 50-pound payload. This aircraft is intended for long-distance tactical deliveries of vital repair supplies between naval vessels and shorelines in contested maritime zones, a task currently performed by manned aircraft.

Innovative Design features

PteroDynamics’ Transwing system is a cutting-edge VTOL aircraft that features folding wings, allowing for a smooth transition between vertical and horizontal flight modes. Notably, it requires no specialized launch or recovery infrastructure and occupies significantly less ground space—one-third or less—compared to other VTOL aircraft of similar wingspan.

Insights from Leadership

Matthew graczyk, CEO of PteroDynamics, stated, “Our collaboration with NAWCAD since 2019 has been instrumental in defining and achieving critical performance metrics that distinguish the Transwing as a uniquely capable VTOL UAS. This latest contract expansion is especially vital as it involves the complete design, construction, and exhibition of the next-generation P5 Transwing aircraft, which will provide the U.S. Navy with an efficient solution for automated, just-in-time delivery of essential repair components and supplies at sea.”

“The dimensions and capabilities of the P5 align perfectly with the growing market demand, not only from other military branches like the Air Force but also from commercial, governmental, and public safety sectors worldwide, all eager to harness the advantages offered by the Transwing platform.”

“Maritime resupply operations are crucial for naval missions, and for the U.S.Navy and its allies, there is an urgent need to automate the costly and resource-intensive delivery of critical payloads in strategic maritime areas such as the Indo-Pacific.”

Prototype Development and Testing

PteroDynamics is set to design, construct, test, and demonstrate two prototypes of the P5 Transwing UAS in a maritime setting, adhering to the following specifications:

• Maximum gross takeoff weight of 330 pounds
• Capability to transport a 50-pound payload over a minimum distance of 400 nautical miles
• Hybrid electric/internal combustion engine that can utilize JP-5 fuel
• Autonomous operations involving multiple aircraft
• Satellite communication systems for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations
• Detect and avoid (DAA) technology
• Operational versatility across a broader range of environmental conditions
• Transportable via C-130 and C-17 fixed-wing aircraft, as well as CH-53 and CH-47 helicopters