Austin, Texas-based defense technology startup Skyways has been awarded a significant $37 million contract by the U.S. Air Force’s innovation arm, AFWERX. This substantial funding is aimed at advancing the development and production of Skyways’ autonomous cargo drones, marking a pivotal step toward integrating unmanned aerial logistics into military operations.
According to The Defense Post, the contract focuses on transitioning Skyways’ V3 cargo drone from its prototype phase to full-rate production. This initiative underscores the Air Force’s commitment to enhancing its logistics capabilities with cutting-edge autonomous systems. The V3 drone is designed to carry a useful load of 100 pounds and boasts an impressive range exceeding 1,000 miles, with an endurance of over 20 hours. Its “double-hybrid” design, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing as well as efficient forward flight, provides crucial operational flexibility for diverse missions.
DroneLife mentioned that the contract is part of AFWERX’s “Strategic Funding Increase” program, which seeks to bridge the gap between innovative prototypes and deployable defense solutions. The publication noted that the funding will enable Skyways to refine its production design, further develop its autonomy stack, and prepare for large-scale manufacturing. This move is expected to establish Skyways’ platform as a “Program of Record” within the U.S. Air Force, paving the way for wider adoption across various military branches.
The Austin Business Journal highlighted that this contract is a significant win for the local defense tech ecosystem. The publication emphasized that Skyways’ ability to rapidly develop and demonstrate real capabilities, rather than relying solely on theoretical proposals, has been a key factor in securing such substantial military backing. The funding will not only accelerate the deployment of Skyways’ advanced cargo drones but also contribute to job creation and technological innovation in the Austin area. The integration of these autonomous systems is set to reduce risks to personnel and enhance the efficiency of logistics in challenging operational environments for the U.S. military.
