K-MAX Kaman Drone

Full Specifications

K-MAX Kaman Unmanned Cargo Drone

The K-MAX Kaman Unmanned Cargo Drone is a purpose-built, heavy-lift aerial logistics platform designed to transport cargo autonomously in challenging and contested environments. Developed by Kaman Aerospace in partnership with Lockheed Martin, the K-MAX UAS is based on the proven K-MAX manned helicopter, re-engineered to operate as an unmanned aerial system for military sustainment missions, remote resupply, and humanitarian operations.

Originally developed in the United States, the K-MAX drone focuses on a single mission—external-lift cargo delivery. Its intermeshing-rotor design eliminates the need for a tail rotor, allowing maximum lifting power with exceptional fuel efficiency. The drone can lift up to 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) of cargo, making it one of the heaviest-lift UAVs in its class.

The U.S. Marine Corps deployed the unmanned K-MAX in Afghanistan, where it carried out thousands of autonomous resupply sorties to remote forward operating bases, significantly reducing the risk to ground convoys. With advanced autonomy, obstacle avoidance sensors, and redundant satellite command-and-control links, the drone performs precise drops, long-endurance missions, and nighttime operations with minimal human oversight.

Its ability to fly in difficult terrains, including mountains, deserts, and disaster-stricken zones, makes the K-MAX drone a highly valued logistics asset. Without reliance on runways, and with VTOL capability, it delivers mission-critical supplies where traditional aircraft cannot operate.

K-MAX Kaman Drone Price

The K-MAX Kaman Unmanned Cargo Drone varies in cost depending on configuration, autonomy package, and mission systems. While exact pricing is not publicly disclosed, estimates place the unit cost between USD 10–14 million, depending on mission-specific equipment and upgrades.