Textron Aviation and autonomous flight developer Merlin have unveiled a pilotless Cessna SkyCourier concept designed to deliver military supplies when conventional supply routes become too dangerous or unavailable.
The companies introduced the SkyCourier UX on September 14, 2026, at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Maryland. The concept would combine the twin-engine turboprop with Merlin Pilot autonomous flight software, allowing operations without an onboard crew, including takeoff and landing.
Current design objectives call for a payload of approximately 6,000 pounds, room for up to three LD3 cargo containers and the ability to operate from unimproved runways. Potential missions include delivering medical supplies and repair parts, resupplying remote bases and supporting forces operating from islands.
Textron and Merlin are also examining changes to the aircraft’s cargo layout that would take advantage of removing the cockpit. One proposal would replace the cockpit with additional cargo space and a large nose opening for loading freight.
Other features under consideration include a kneeling capability to lower the aircraft for loading and integrated cargo-loading systems. Together, those changes could make it easier to handle freight at locations with limited ground equipment, the companies said.
“The future of contested logistics needs more capacity and access to places we wouldn’t risk a crew,” said Matt George, Merlin’s CEO and founder.
The companies see a role for the aircraft between small cargo drones and large military transports.
Founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Merlin develops systems designed to allow military and civilian aircraft to fly autonomously, from takeoff to landing.
Merlin said its autonomous flight system has already completed hundreds of flights on Cessna Caravans, Beechcraft King Airs and other aircraft. Its planned work on the SkyCourier concept includes engineering studies and evaluations of autonomous operations and flights with or without an onboard pilot.
Because Textron already builds the FAA-certified SkyCourier, the proposed autonomus version of the aircraft could use the company’s existing production facilities and worldwide maintenance and support network.