US Navy and Army advance heavy-fuel drone technology

The U.S. Army and Navy are advancing unmanned aerial capabilities through new propulsion research and upcoming technology demonstrations. The DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory recently announced a successful flight demonstration of a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine powering the VICTOR drone. This series-hybrid system uses standard kerosene, which allows military units to avoid carrying separate gasoline supplies for mid-sized drones.

Separately, the U.S. Navy has announced a technology demonstration for the Marine Corps’ Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System (TRUAS) Increment II. Scheduled for January 25 to February 5, 2027, in Huntsville, Alabama, the event will invite defense contractors to showcase cargo drones capable of using diesel or jet fuel rather than batteries.

The TRUAS requirements specify that drones must be able to transport a 100-pound payload approximately 40 nautical miles and return to the launch site without refueling. The program aims to provide organic aerial distribution for small-unit logistics in expeditionary and distributed operations, significantly extending the range compared to current battery-electric models.