Aerospace technology pioneers combine their expertise to integrate hydrogen fuel-cell technology into the Black Swan, the long-range cargo drone being developed by Dronamics
Cargo drone developer and operator Dronamics is partnering with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS), a leading innovator in the development of zero-emissions solutions for aerospace, to integrate hydrogen fuel-cell technology into the Black Swan, the long-range, ‘middle-mile’ cargo drone being developed by Dronamics.
The collaboration will focus on integrating the hydrogen fuel-cell technology CAeS is developing into the Black Swan, the flagship aircraft designed, developed and operated by Dronamics, with the aim of creating a technically and commercially feasible zero-emissions offering for cargo delivery services. The two aerospace innovators share a belief that hydrogen fuel-cell technology can open up the possibility of zero-emissions aviation.
The Black Swan is designed to carry up to 350 kg at a range of up to 2,500 km, potentially making same-day delivery over long distances affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly.
Konstantin Rangelov, co-founder and CTO of Dronamics, commented: “When we set out to develop our drone technology, we had a very clear goal in mind – build the most efficient cargo aircraft to date: less time, less cost, less emissions. Our partnership with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions will allow us to bring clean, zero-emission aviation technology to more communities and businesses in all corners of the planet, quicker.”
Paul Hutton, CEO of CaeS, commented: “This partnership with Dronamics represents a fantastic opportunity for CaeS. Not only will the hydrogen-fuel-cell technology we are currently developing for the nine-seat Britten-Norman Islander change the face of regional aviation, but it will also make a huge impact on the cargo industry. The combined experience and expertise of CAeS and Dronamics is a very exciting prospect.”
