Elroy Air has announced a major step forward for its Chaparral cargo drone program by partnering with Kratos Defense, which will serve as the exclusive US manufacturer of the aircraft. The five-year agreement is aimed at accelerating mass production of the autonomous hybrid-electric VTOL platform, with the first production-ready unit scheduled for delivery in 2026.
The collaboration will begin with low-rate assembly at Kratos’ Sacramento facility before scaling to full-rate production in Oklahoma. The expansion is expected to generate new employment opportunities and enhance the domestic supply chain, reinforcing US industrial strength in unmanned aerial systems.
The Chaparral drone is tailored for autonomous medium-lift operations, capable of transporting 300 pounds (136 kilograms) of cargo across ranges of up to 300 miles (483 kilometers). Its hybrid propulsion system offers unique operational flexibility, allowing fast refueling, battery charging during flight, and extended endurance compared to fully electric drones.
Recent tests demonstrated the aircraft’s ability to transition from vertical liftoff to efficient forward flight, a milestone that confirms its operational viability. Designed for missions ranging from military resupply to humanitarian aid and commercial express delivery, the Chaparral is being positioned as a next-generation logistics solution that bridges the gap between helicopters and ground-based transport.
