FORT BRAGG, N.C. — Modalic has presented the first production version of its autonomous Chariot unmanned aircraft system, a platform the company is developing to launch smaller drones and effectors while supporting other missions.
The company had previously developed and flown prototype versions of the system. Zack Fishbein, Modalic’s co-founder and chief executive, told reporters on Sept. 16 that the production aircraft is due to begin flight testing in November.
Payload-focused design
Chariot weighs 200 pounds and is specified for a 100-pound payload. Fishbein said its payload capacity is well above that figure. Modalic describes the aircraft as an autonomous UAS capable of serving as a launch platform for smaller uncrewed systems and effectors, in addition to other missions.
The transition to a production-version aircraft marks the next stage of the Chariot program as Modalic prepares to move from prototype flying to planned flight tests of the new configuration.
