Singapore’s ST Engineering has partnered with California firm Odys Aviation to build a propulsion system for the DrN-600 medium-lift unmanned aerial system (UAS).
Under a memorandum of understanding, the companies will work toward a definitive agreement that would see Odys design, prototype, and mass-produce the propulsion system for the 600-kilogram (1,323-pound) cargo drone.
Initial activities will focus on validating the propulsion system’s technical specifications, performance, end-to-end cost, and development roadmap before moving toward production.
The agreement also opens the door to integrating ST’s ground control software with Odys’ aircraft portfolio, expanding the partnership beyond propulsion into mission systems and flight operations.
‘Category-Defining Capability’
The propulsion system will be based on Odys’ in-house Hybrid Power System, which generates outputs ranging from 20 kilowatts to 4 megawatts.
Designed for extended missions and lower operating costs, the technology supports defense, aviation, and energy applications in demanding environments.
“For five years, our team has designed, built, and flown proprietary Hybrid Power Systems that deliver range and endurance others can’t match,” said James Dorris, CEO of Odys Aviation.
“ST Engineering is a world leader in aerospace and unmanned systems, and their confidence in Odys validates what we’ve believed from the start, that our Hybrid Power System is a category-defining capability in its own right.”
Expanding ‘Operational Relevance’
The hybrid-electric propulsion system is being developed to increase the DrN-600’s range beyond 300 kilometers (186 miles) while preserving its ability to carry payloads of up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds).
ST Engineering aims to certify the cargo drone by 2028, with prototype trials and customer evaluations planned as development progresses.
“As we continue to bring it to market and expand its practical use cases, it is important that we work with the right partner to enhance its capabilities in a focused and meaningful way,” said Teong Soo Soon, senior vice president at ST Engineering.
“Hybrid-electric propulsion is one pathway to further strengthen the DrN-600’s flexibility, endurance and operational relevance.”
