M.U.L.E. UAV
Product descripton: M.U.L.E. UAV by WaveAerospace
M.U.L.E. (Multi-Mission, Utility, Logistics, & Expedition) is a heavy-lift VTOL unmanned aerial platform engineered for sustained operations in extreme and highly contested environments. Designed to perform reliably in mountainous terrain and severe maritime conditions—up to Force 10 sea states—M.U.L.E. delivers exceptional resilience, payload capacity, and mission flexibility.
With a payload capability exceeding 40 kg, the platform is optimized for cargo transport, battlefield logistics, and expeditionary resupply. In addition, it supports the integration of EO/IR sensor payloads, enabling long-range, long-endurance ISR and RIF missions across land and maritime domains.
Ruggedized Architecture & Navigation
The airframe is fully weatherproof (IP66) and purpose-built for dynamic environments such as rough seas and high-wind conditions. It incorporates accelerometer-compensated phased radar altimetry combined with inertial navigation, ensuring precise altitude control and stability where conventional GNSS alone is insufficient. A multi-constellation GNSS receiver with advanced anti-jamming and anti-spoofing capabilities further enhances operational reliability in contested electromagnetic environments.
Hybrid Power & Acoustic Control
M.U.L.E. is powered by a hybrid JP-8 / electric propulsion system, enabling battery-only takeoff, landing, and low-acoustic approach profiles for stealth-sensitive missions. The platform integrates a 100 kW electrical architecture and a 20 kW auxiliary power unit (APU), supporting high-demand payloads and extended mission durations. Communications are fully encrypted and radio-agnostic, ensuring secure interoperability across operational networks.
Operational Impact
As WaveAerospace’s latest heavy-lift VTOL system, M.U.L.E. redefines on-demand logistics, fleet protection, and C3ISR / RIF operations in both land- and sea-based theaters. Built for resilience, adaptability, and mission continuity, it delivers a dependable solution for transporting critical payloads through some of the world’s most challenging operational environments.
Technical specifications
MISSION PROFILES
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Cargo delivery and contested logistics
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Emergency response
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Ship-to-ship operations
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Reconnaissance & RIF (Reconnaissance in Force)
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Long-duration camera platforms
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Stand-off fleet protection
KEY FEATURES
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Four (4) hours flight endurance in zero visibility and Force 10 ocean conditions
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True hybrid (JP-8 / electric) power system — no ground maintenance or charging equipment required
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Reliable operations in high seas with accelerometer-compensated onboard phased radar altimetry and inertial guidance
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Mobile power generation providing up to 20 kW of power to external devices when not in flight
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Fully autonomous flight, landing, and payload delivery capability
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Seven-system GNSS protected against spoofing with dedicated IMU
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20 kW APU and 100 kW electrical system, providing up to 30 minutes of power without APU running (APU can be switched on or off during flight)
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Take-off, landing, and quiet approach using battery power only
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Low-level terrain tracking and onboard optical recognition
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Fully encrypted communications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Platform Type | Heavy-lift VTOL UAV |
| Wingspan | 4 m (unfolded) |
| Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) | 181 kg (400 lbs) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 40+ kg (100 lb class) |
| Endurance | Up to 4 hours |
| Range | 100 miles (with 40 kg payload) |
| Cruise Speed | 50–70 knots (57–80 mph / 25–36 m/s) |
| Maximum Altitude | 2,500 m (8,200 ft) |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 50 knots (57 mph / 25.7 m/s) |
| Sea State Capability | Force 10 ocean conditions |
| Weather Rating | IP66 (all-weather, weatherproof) |
| Power System | Self-charging electric system using heavy fuels or liquid propane |
| Propellers | 3-blade, pre-balanced carbon fiber |
| Operating Temperature Range | –17°C to +50°C (0°F to 122°F) |