The
unmanned K-MAX has demonstrated its ability to carry and
deliver 6,000 pounds of cargo at sea level and more than
4,000 pounds at 10,000 feet altitude. The aircraft can
also deliver more cargo to more locations in one flight
than any other unmanned rotary wing aircraft. Its intermeshing
rotors eliminate the need for a tail rotor and allow for
significantly improved lift performance and lower maintenance
costs.
"K-MAX
is the optimal choice for an affordable unmanned cargo
delivery capability," said Terry Fogarty, Kaman Aerospace
Unmanned Aircraft Systems general manager. "With
reduced operational and logistics costs, increased fuel
savings and less manpower required compared to a ground
vehicle convoy or manned helicopter, the K-MAX is the
lowest-risk solution for the mission."
Since
partnering in 2007, Lockheed Martin and Kaman Aerospace
have made significant investments to provide a rapid response
to an urgent military service need. The team has met all
milestones to date and exceeded Marine Corps requirements
during a demonstration at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah
in January.
