DZYNE Technologies' Long-Range Grasshopper Redefines Autonomous Cargo Delivery with 500-lb Payload

DZYNE Technologies has successfully completed the test flight of its Long-Range Grasshopper, marking a major breakthrough in autonomous logistics. This latest version of the Grasshopper platform pushes the boundaries of how cargo can be delivered in dangerous or hard-to-reach areas, offering a powerful mix of extended range, a 500-pound payload capacity, and cost-effective performance.

The original Grasshopper was a glider-based delivery system. Now, DZYNE has added a turbine engine and advanced systems to its upgraded Long-Range version, allowing it to fly longer and reach further distances with high accuracy. These improvements make it ideal for “contested logistics” – situations where traditional supply chains are too risky or expensive to operate.

According to DZYNE CEO Matthew McCue, the new Grasshopper offers a “game-changing capability” in delivering payloads accurately and safely in complex environments, all while keeping costs lower than traditional defense platforms. The company emphasizes that its approach not only enhances performance but also challenges the usual high costs associated with defense technology.

Testing for the Long-Range Grasshopper took place at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah and the Pendleton UAS Range in Oregon during late 2024. In a smooth sequence of actions, the vehicle was dropped from a host aircraft, transitioned into fixed-wing flight, activated its onboard jet engine, and flew to its target under its own power. It completed the mission with a precise landing at the planned location.

Ed Smetak, Executive Vice President of Programs at DZYNE, praised the aircraft’s use of affordable manufacturing techniques that allow for high-impact results. He also pointed to the valuable partnership with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RSC), which helped speed up development and provided fast feedback.

The Grasshopper is designed with flexibility and reliability in mind, especially for missions where human involvement could be dangerous. It can carry critical supplies for military units or emergency operations while keeping the launch teams at a safe distance. Whether for resupply, tactical missions, or disaster relief, the Grasshopper is built to deliver.

To prepare for growing demand, DZYNE expanded its manufacturing capacity by opening a new 125,000-square-foot facility in Irvine, California, in November 2023. This facility brings together engineering, research, and production to increase the output of Grasshopper systems.

Alongside the Grasshopper family, DZYNE Technologies also develops other advanced defense technologies such as the LEAP and ULTRA intelligence platforms and several counter-drone systems, including Dronebuster, Sawtooth, and Shield. These offerings underscore the company’s commitment to cost-efficient, autonomous solutions that meet modern defense challenges.