July 20 2022

Inteliports (formerly Motion Robotics) has been accepted into the second round of the DE&S Future Capability Group (FCG) Heavy Lift Challenge framework. The challenge, which sees uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) put through their paces, was organised in collaboration with the Royal Navy 700X Naval Air Squadron and for the Royal Navy Office for the Chief Technology Officer.

The announcement from the DE&S states “The Heavy Lift Challenge is an innovative approach to engaging with and stimulating the market, developed jointly between the Royal Navy and DES FCG. It encourages UAS manufacturers to showcase crewless technology which has the potential to deliver supplies and equipment to ships and personnel at sea. This could enable the armed forces to autonomously transport vital supplies, such as ammunition and medical equipment, to combat zones – reducing the risk to personnel.”

Inteliports has begun development in creating systems to meet the specific needs of this challenge. With work starting on a heavy lift drone alongside automated loading rovers to meet the increased scale of mission. Utilising the Inteliports system, scaled for needs of the MOD to begin the process of automating logistic operations.

Drones and the military

In the ever-evolving world of military logistics, the Royal Navy is at the forefront of technological innovation, exploring new methods to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. One such groundbreaking development is the use of drones for resupplying Royal Navy ships. The Royal Navy’s Heavy Lift challenge is designed to explore how drones are changing the game in naval logistics, making resupply operations more efficient, cost-effective, and secure.

The Need for Efficient Resupply

Resupplying naval ships, whether they are deployed on missions or stationed at a base, is a critical aspect of maintaining operational readiness. Conventional methods, such as cargo ships or aircraft, have been used for decades, but they come with their own set of challenges, including time delays, potential risks to personnel, and significant costs. To address these issues, the Royal Navy has turned to drone technology and we look forward to supplying heavy lift systems.

Article from DE&S: https://des.mod.uk/heavy-lift-challenge-uas/