Textron Aviation and Merlin have unveiled the Cessna SkyCourier UX concept at the Air, Space & Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, proposing an autonomous resupply aircraft for dispersed military forces operating in contested environments. Built around the Cessna SkyCourier platform and Merlin Pilot software, the concept targets about 6,000 pounds of payload, up to three LD3 cargo containers and operations from austere or unimproved runways.
The companies position the aircraft as a bridge between small tactical cargo drones and larger military transports. Intended missions include hub-and-spoke distribution, expeditionary-base sustainment, medical resupply, critical spare parts delivery and support for island or remote airfields.
The concept is pitched as a scalable and cost-efficient logistics option for military users, rather than an operational aircraft or confirmed procurement. No order, delivery schedule, unit quantity or fielding date was disclosed.