DZYNE Advances Contested Logistics with 500-lb Payload Long-Range Grasshopper Test

IRVINE, Calif., May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DZYNE Technologies is proud to announce the successful test flight of the Long-Range Grasshopper, the newest addition to the Grasshopper product line. This groundbreaking advancement marks a significant step forward in autonomous delivery technology.

Building on the proven success of the original Grasshopper autonomous glider, the Long-Range Grasshopper introduces a turbine engine and advanced systems, enhancing its range capability while delivering a 500-pound payload. Designed as a cost-effective solution, this platform delivers high performance at a fraction of the cost compared to similar systems. "The Long-Range Grasshopper represents a game-changing capability for accurate and survivable payload delivery in contested logistics environments," said Matthew McCue, CEO of DZYNE Technologies. "It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to breaking the traditional defense acquisition cost curve while safeguarding our country and its interests. Collaborating with AFRL/RSC on this project has been an incredible opportunity, and we are proud to partner with such a forward-thinking organization to advance innovative solutions for modern defense challenges."

Flight testing occurred in late 2024 at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, and Pendelton UAS Range, Oregon—showcasing the Long-Range Grasshopper's robust capabilities. During the test, the vehicle deployed and safely separated from the host aircraft, transitioned to fixed-wing flight, successfully air-started its onboard jet engine, flew under power, and executed a precision landing at the intended landing zone, demonstrating its ability to meet mission critical performance standards in contested environments.

DZYNE Technologies' Executive Vice President of Programs, Ed Smetak, stated, "The Long-Range Grasshopper program exemplifies the innovative potential of low-cost manufacturing techniques to deliver game-changing cargo capabilities. The close collaboration between AFRL/RSC and DZYNE Technologies has accelerated the development timeline, enabling rapid flight testing and immediate user feedback.

The Grasshopper product line addresses the logistical challenges of high-risk operational environments. Its contested logistics capabilities enable aerial suppliers from standoff distances to deliver critical payloads while keeping host aircraft safely out of harm's way, making it an ideal solution for operations in contested areas. With scalable production and innovative design, the Grasshopper family supports a range of use cases, from emergency resupply to tactical deliveries, offering unmatched flexibility and reliability.

In addition to its operational achievements, the company has scaled its manufacturing capabilities to meet growing demand. The company announced the opening of a new 125,000-square-foot facility in Irvine, California, in November 2023. This state-of-the-art facility, which consolidates UAS engineering, research, and manufacturing teams under one roof, ramping up production to meet the anticipated demand for the Grasshopper product line to support its anticipated demand.

DZYNE remains a trusted partner in autonomous defense solutions, offering a diverse portfolio that includes the LEAP and ULTRA long-endurance ISR platforms and the Dronebuster®, Sawtooth, and Shield CUAS platforms. The Grasshopper family represents a significant leap forward in autonomous logistics, reinforcing DZYNE Technologies' position at the forefront of the rapidly evolving defense industry as a disruptive solutions provider.

For more information on the Grasshopper product line, please email [email protected]

Case Number: AFRL-2025-0644
The material was assigned a clearance of CLEARED AS AMENDED on 06 Feb 2025.

About DZYNE Technologies 

DZYNE is a leading technology developer and manufacturer of airborne and ground-based autonomous defense solutions purpose-built to meet modern defense needs around the globe. The company's solutions encompass the entire autonomous defense lifecycle and include multiple U.S. Government Programs of Record across UAS and C-UAS technologies. DZYNE is proud to support U.S. and allied military and civil defense partners worldwide. For more information, visit www.dzyne.com. 

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SOURCE DZYNE Technologies