UK firm's ultra heavy-lift drone with 880-pound capacity takes flight

Hybrid Drones Limited, a London-based company, has developed the HYDRA-400, an ultra-heavy-lift VTOL drone capable of lifting up to 400 kg (880 pounds). This third-generation uncrewed aerial vehicle combines electric rotors with micro jet turbines for propulsion and lift, offering configurations ranging from fully electric to hybrid with two, four, or six jets. Notably compact and portable, the HYDRA-400 can be transported in the back of a flatbed truck and assembled in minutes, positioning it ahead of competitors in terms of payload capacity, cost, and portability. The HYDRA-400 recently completed its first successful flight following ground tests at Thruxton Aerodrome, demonstrating stable mechanical and electrical performance. The drone’s design supports diverse applications such as firefighting, delivery, rescue missions, casualty evacuation, and battlefield cargo or weapon delivery. Developed with £1.1 million of investment over six years, Hybrid Drones is now seeking an additional £