Malloy T-150: the operational logistics drone for Royal Navy and Royal Marines

The United Kingdom takes a decisive step in military innovation: BAE Systems has announced that the Malloy T-150 unmanned aerial system (UAS) has been declared operational. After months of testing conducted in extreme environments, from Arctic cold to the scorching heat of the Indian Ocean, the T-150 is ready to enhance the logistical capabilities of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, ensuring rapid and effective supplies in scenarios that are difficult to reach by traditional means.

A new generation of UAS

Designed by Malloy Aeronautics, a company part of BAE Systems' FalconWorks research division, the T-150 belongs to the “T-Series” of heavy electric quadcopters. These aircraft are capable of carrying loads from 68 to 300 kg, independent of runways and with a reduced footprint, making them ideal for logistical missions, medical evacuations, or even the delivery of armaments.

The T-150, in particular, can lift up to 68 kg, reach a maximum speed of 96 km/h, and cover over 70 km with a range of about 40 minutes. The system can be used in both manual and autonomous modes, thanks to a simple and intuitive digital interface that allows for waypoint programming on a map.

Extreme tests and exercises

The drone has been tested by the Royal Marines Commandos, the 700X Naval Air Squadron, and the Commando Logistic Regiment. The trials demonstrated the T-150's ability to operate in prohibitive conditions, transporting ammunition, weapons, food, medicines, and other vital supplies to isolated areas or complex terrains.

In case of a mission, the T-150 requires a team of two people: a remote pilot and an operator dedicated to controlling the command station. The system has also been integrated with redundant avionics and quickly replaceable batteries to ensure continuity in operations.

A historic first in open sea

The drone has already been employed in a demonstration mission with the British Carrier Strike Group in the Indo-Pacific. On that occasion, it carried out the transfer of supplies in flight from the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales to the destroyer HMS Dauntless, marking the first time such a UAS has been used in logistical operations between warships in open sea.

Low environmental impact innovation

In addition to its performance, the T-150 stands out for its reduced environmental impact: being fully electric, it produces no direct emissions during use. An advantage not only ecologically but also operationally, reducing the risk of detection and improving the sustainability of long-term operations.

With the Malloy T-150, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines are thus equipped with a versatile, robust, and sustainable platform, ready to revolutionize military logistics and ensure timely and secure support to units engaged in frontline missions.