British company tests HYDRA-400 ultra heavy-lift drone

The UK-built HYDRA-400 ultra heavy-lift drone has successfully completed its first flight, according to a report by The Daily Express, drawing interest from the British Army and several NATO partners.

The aircraft, developed by Hampshire-based manufacturer Hybrid Drones, is described as a first-in-class ultra heavy-lift uncrewed aerial vehicle capable of lifting up to 400 kilograms. The company states that the HYDRA-400 can be transported in the back of a flatbed truck, assembled in minutes, and prepared for flight shortly after deployment.

According to The Daily Express, the HYDRA-400 is being presented as a low-cost alternative to helicopters for certain missions in both military and civilian roles. The platform’s lift capacity allows it to transport injured personnel or be configured to carry other payloads, including munitions.

Hybrid Drones states that the HYDRA-400’s lift capability exceeds that of other uncrewed aircraft currently available. The company describes the system as “Designed for ultra heavy-lift,” “Built to carry up to 400 kg,” “Compact and fast to deploy,” and offering “First in class capability.”

Tom O’Connor, Managing Director of Hybrid Drones and a former Army aircraft engineer, told The Daily Express that casualty evacuation is a key mission area for the platform.

“Pulling somebody out of the field, who’s it’s their only way out, without risking any other lives through using alternative platforms to get in there and get them help, that’s a challenge we want to take,” O’Connor said.

The report notes that the HYDRA-400 has already attracted attention from the British Army, and discussions have been held with several NATO partners. No contract awards or formal procurement decisions were disclosed in the report.

The HYDRA-400 is designed as a heavy-lift uncrewed system capable of vertical takeoff and landing, enabling operations without a runway. Its payload capacity of 400 kilograms positions it for roles such as casualty evacuation, logistics resupply, and potential weapons carriage, depending on configuration.

Heavy-lift drones capable of transporting personnel represent a departure from smaller reconnaissance or loitering munitions systems more commonly fielded in recent conflicts. By combining vertical lift capability with road transportability, the HYDRA-400 is positioned to support expeditionary operations where traditional rotary-wing aircraft may be unavailable or at risk.