Unmanned Helicopter

Concept

K-RACER is an advanced aerial logistics solution developed to tackle pressing social challenges, including labor shortages driven by a declining birthrate and an aging population, as well as the growing impact of natural disasters.
Leveraging the unique advantages of unmanned aircraft, K-RACER offers innovative solutions for these issues.
It combines Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ extensive expertise in helicopter development with the high-performance small-engine technology cultivated through its motorcycle business. This fusion enables K-RACER to overcome the limitations of conventional drones by achieving:
  • Heavy cargo transportation
  • Long-range and extended-duration flights
  • Reliable performance in strong wind conditions
Additionally, it features simple tablet-based controls unique to unmanned aircraft and is also capable of fully automated flight.

Use Cases

The second-generation demonstration model, K-RACER-X2, has already proven its capabilities in real industrial infrastructure settings.

▼Mountainous Cargo Transport Mountainous Cargo Transport

Video available here

▼Transmission Tower Cargo Transport Transmission Tower Cargo Transport

Video available here

▼Emergency Supply Delivery Emergency Supply Delivery During

Video available here

▼Wind Turbine Blade Maintenance Wind Turbine Blade Maintenance

Video available here

Roadmap

We are currently conducting Proof of Concept (PoC) tests across various use cases. In 2025, we obtained approval in Japan for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, enabling us to advance our flight testing efforts. We are developing the mass-production model in parallel while incorporating data and operational know-how obtained from these PoCs.
Looking ahead, we are also exploring the adoption of power units aligned with future decarbonization goals, as we strive to lead the next industrial revolution in the skies.

K-RACER-X2 Specifications

Rotor diameter 7.0m
Height 2.0m
Max. payload 200kg
Powerplant Reciprocating engine
Fuel type High-octane gasoline
Cruise speed Approx. 140km/h
Range 100km or more
Endurance 1 hour
Wind resistance Approx. 18m/s

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