Lockheed Martin’s Unmanned K-MAX Cargo Helicopter Team Returns from Afghanistan.

In 2011, K-MAX became the first unmanned helicopter to deliver cargo in theater for the U.S. Marine Corps. As troops were frequent targets of improvised explosive devices and insurgent attacks, the K-MAX answered the call to reduce the number of truck resupply convoys and their troop escorts to protect soldiers on the ground.

Manufactured by Kaman Aerospace Corporation and outfitted with its mission package of systems and sensors, the heavy-lifting K-MAX UAS is a transformational technology that can lift 6,000 pounds of cargo at sea level. Capable of flying delivery missions day and night, K-MAX can reach remote locations without risking a life.

“We are proud to welcome home the unmanned K-MAX Team from their successful deployment in theater,” said Dan Spoor, vice president of Aviation and Unmanned Systems at Lockheed Martin’s Mission Systems and Training business. “K-MAX exceeded expectations as an unmanned platform in keeping our troops out of harm’s way, and we continue to develop onboard technology and autonomy for future military and civil missions.”

Lockheed Martin Corporation and Kaman Aerospace Corporation have successfully transformed Kaman’s proven K-MAX® power lift helicopter into an unmanned aerial system (UAS). Its mission: battlefield cargo resupply for the U.S. military. The system can lift and deliver a full 6,000 lbs of cargo at sea level, and more than 4,000 pounds at 15,000 ft density altitude.