AviationNews – Belarusian aerospace innovator KB Unmanned Helicopters (UAVHELI), based in Minsk, has announced the marked success of its inaugural test flights for the SKY-TRUCK, a pioneering unmanned cargo helicopter.
What Makes the SKY-TRUCK Stand Out?
- Coaxial Rotor Design: Featuring dual three-bladed counter-rotating rotors (12.8 m in diameter), this design ensures stability and compact takeoff capabilities—even from rough, unprepared 30 x 30 m zones.
- Solid Build, Smart Design: At 7.7 m in length (blades excluded), 4 m tall, and a track width of 2.6 m, its crane-like architecture places rotors above the payload for improved aerodynamics and balance.
- Robust Payload Capability: Capable of lifting up to 600 kg, loaded via the detachable AIRBOX module beneath the fuselage.
- Flexible Power Options: Originally intended for the Russian VK-650 engine, UAVHELI has expanded compatibility to include Rolls-Royce 250-C20/C30/C47 engines—giving the SKY-TRUCK the edge in international deployment.
Performance Highlights
| Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max Take-off Mass | ~2,350 kg |
| Dry Weight | ~1,100 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | ~500 litres (ca. 375 kg) |
| Speed (Max / Cruise) | 140 km/h / 120 km/h |
| Range & Endurance | ~360–480 km; up to 5 h |
| Service Life | ~6,000 hours (airframe); 3,000 hours (engine) |
Expanded Mission Scope
Initially designed for offshore oil platform resupply, the SKY-TRUCK’s multipurpose utility has expanded to include:
- Humanitarian & medical logistics
- Remote infrastructure support
- Rapid response in challenging terrains and maritime environments
Market Buzz & International Cooperation
SKY-TRUCK shares core design traits with the Air Truck unmanned helicopter by EDGE’s ADASI in the UAE, reflecting Belarus’s collaborative ties with the UAE holdings.
Early commercial interest is strong—UAVHELI reportedly has preliminary orders for 20 units from undisclosed buyers.
Why It Matters
As one of the very few medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles optimized for cargo transport, the SKY-TRUCK slots into a rapidly rising niche in autonomous logistics. With growing demand for drone-based delivery systems across civilian and defense sectors, Belarus is staking a compelling claim on the global UAV market.
