• T-150/TRV-150 Drones from BAE Systems and Malloy.

Credit: US Defense
    T-150/TRV-150 Drones from BAE Systems and Malloy. Credit: US Defense
Close×

Designed by Malloy Aeronautics and now under the umbrella of BAE Systems, the T-150/TRV-150 is a remotely controlled, autonomous electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air cargo drone. Designed for tactical resupply operations, the drone, BAE says, has the potential to simplify defence logistics.

There are two models, the T-150 and the TRV-150. Both models are closely related and share the same core specifications and capabilities; the TRV-150 is a broader designation for tactical resupply missions and as such the model referenced is dependent on operational contexts. BAE Systems has outlined a roadmap for the drone’s future capabilities and current applications.

With the ability to carry a payload of up to 68kg, the T-150 and TRV-150 can deliver essential supplies such as food, water, medical tools, weapons and ammunitions, directly to an operational area. The drone is battery powered and features eight propellers, each powered by its own electric motor.

The battery was designed for swift removal and replacement to ensure rapid turnaround times. Key design features include fixed skid landing gear to enhance reliability and redundant avionics, ensuring a backup system in the case of a failure of critical electronics.

The cargo drone has a range of eight to 45km, which depends on factors such as payload and weather conditions. The drone is 2.05 meters in width and 2.65 meters in length, with a height of 0.71 meters. It is also capable of reaching a maximum speed of 30 meters per second and can operate at altitudes of up to 37,000 metres.

BAE Systems has laid out plans to bolster the T-150 and TRV-150’s operational capabilities. According to the company future developments may include the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into navigation systems to enhance and refine autonomy.

Similar improvements are to be made to software and control systems to drive efficiency and the drone’s ability to adapt to hazardous terrain. Additionally, expansions to payload capacity for heavier and specialised cargo are also reportedly on the horizon.

This expansion of capabilities aligns with broader industry trends where UAVs are increasingly being utilised to fortify supply chains. In addition to its value within a military context, the T-150/TRV-150 is also being evaluated for potential applicability in humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

The drone already has experience within these frameworks. In 2022, the United Kingdom donated T-150/TRV-150 drones to the Ukrainian Armed Forces as part of a broader military support package, with the aim of addressing logistical and supply chain issues faced by Ukrainian defence forces on the front line.

Having acquired Malloy Aeronautics in 2024, BAE Systems continues to support such initiatives. A representative from the company noted that BAE Systems is “proud to have a leading role in supporting Ukraine’s long-term defence requirements. We are supporting the UK MoD in its support of Ukraine.”

The US Navy is also among key customers, making an order for 200 T-150/TRV-150 drones in April 2023. This was bolstered by an order of 23 more drones in December 2023 for the Marine Corps (USMC). The first six production models entered service in November 2023.  

The USMC has already heavily integrated the drones into their logistical operations and training. Recent images from the US DoD depict a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, conducting a safety inspection on the T-150/TRV-150 during a training exercise at the MC Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California in March 2025.

The USMC appears to be continuing with the implementation of these drones into their overall operations, with plans to equip all logistic battalions with TRUAS by 2028 allocating between three and six drones per unit. 

The T-150/TRV-150 cargo drone will evolve under the umbrella of BAE Systems, with intentions for enhanced capabilities and operational refinements.

comments powered by Disqus