In the heart of Japan’s drone innovation scene, the Kanazawa Institute of Technology is pushing boundaries with a groundbreaking VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) drone that could revolutionize everything from disaster relief to logistics. With a jaw-dropping 50 kg payload capacity and a flight range of over 50 km, this winged electric drone is setting new standards for what’s possible in the skies.
A Heavyweight Contender Takes Flight
On December 10th, 2024, the Akasaka Takeshi Laboratory at the Kanazawa Institute of Technology made history with the first flight test of their massive VTOL drone. Weighing in at over 90 kg (nearly 200 lbs) and equipped with a 40 kg payload, this drone is no lightweight. The test took place at the Hakusan Radio Control Club’s airfield on the Tedori River riverbed, where the team successfully demonstrated the drone’s ability to lift off with both 20 kg and 40 kg weights.
What makes this drone truly unique is its combination of VTOL capabilities, fixed-wing design, and electric propulsion—a trifecta that’s rare in Japan’s drone market. According to the team, there are currently no other drones in Japan that can match its payload capacity and flight range.
Disaster Relief Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
The inspiration for this project came from a real-world challenge: the Noto Peninsula earthquake of 2024. When the quake struck, damaged port infrastructure made it nearly impossible for ships to deliver critical relief supplies. Drones were deployed, but their limited battery life and payload capacity slowed down operations.
Associate Professor Akasaka, the project’s lead, saw an opportunity to create a drone that could bridge the gap. Initially aiming for a 60 km flight from Nanao Bay to Suzu City, the team scaled back to a more achievable 50 km goal. But even this shorter distance is a significant leap forward for electric VTOL drones, especially when carrying heavy payloads.
What’s Next for the Kanazawa Drone?
The prototype used in the December test measures 2.5 meters wide and 1.5 meters deep, with eight propellers providing the lift needed for its hefty payload. Based on the data collected, the team is now working on a fixed-wing version of the drone, with flight tests scheduled for early 2025.
This next iteration could open up a world of possibilities, from delivering medical supplies to remote areas to supporting large-scale industrial operations. And with Japan’s drone industry rapidly evolving, the Kanazawa Institute’s innovation is poised to make waves far beyond its borders.
