The U.S. Marine Corps has awarded Sikorsky and Robinson Unmanned a $15.5 million contract to proceed with a new unmanned cargo helicopter program. An autonomous aircraft intended to transport supplies into disputed regions without risking human crews will be tested as part of the project.

Announced on April 27, the contract supports the Marine Corps’ Medium Aerial Resupply Vehicle – Expeditionary Logistics Increment 2 effort. This program intends to field a reliable drone or pilotless helicopter capable of carrying supplies to forward units when traditional transport is unavailable or too dangerous.

At the center of the project is the R66 Turbinetruck, an autonomous pilotless helicopter built on the Robinson Helicopter Company R66 platform. The aircraft integrates Sikorsky’s MATRIX autonomy system, which allows it to fly missions without onboard pilots.

The system is designed to carry between 1,300 and 2,500 pounds and reach a combat radius of about 115 miles. This system is intended to bridge a logistics gap between small drones and larger transport aircraft, giving Marines a flexible supply option in difficult environments.

Pilotless helicopter design blends proven airframe with autonomy

The R66 Turbinetruck combines an existing commercial helicopter with advanced autonomous controls. Sikorsky’s MATRIX system enables the aircraft to plan and execute missions using onboard sensors and software.

Operators can input mission goals through a tablet interface. The system then creates a flight plan and manages navigation during the mission. This reduces the need for trained pilots in danger zones.

The design builds on technology developed for Sikorsky’s S-70 uncrewed helicopter program. However, the R66 version is smaller and expected to operate at a lower cost, with a reduced logistical footprint.

The first aircraft will be delivered by Robinson Unmanned to Sikorsky, where it will undergo integration, testing, and evaluation. Demonstrations will showcase how the open architecture of the MATRIX technology allows it to adapt to several aircraft types.

Focus on safety in high-risk environments

The Marine Corps intends to use the pilotless aircraft in situations where crewed flights or ground convoys face high risk. The goal is to reduce exposure of personnel while maintaining steady supply lines.

The drone is expected to operate from remote bases, ship decks, and unprepared landing zones. This flexibility is important for expeditionary operations, where infrastructure may be limited or damaged.

Sikorsky leadership stressed the system’s greater potential. Rich Benton, vice president and general manager at Sikorsky, said, “As we expand the MATRIX family, we also extend the reach of uncrewed solutions for both civil and military customers.”

“The commercially developed R66 TURBINETRUCK is simple, economical and re-configurable; ideal for high-risk, hard-to-reach environments where keeping personnel out of harm’s way is essential.”

Building on earlier logistics drone efforts

The MARV-EL program is part of the Marine Corps’ larger push to modernize battlefield logistics. It seeks a middleweight drone capable of operating between small tactical systems and large airlifters.

Sikorsky previously participated in the Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector Phase 1 program last year. Lessons from that effort are expected to inform development and testing under the current contract.