TRV-150 Multi-Role Drone Demonstrates APKWS Firepower Against Ground and Aerial Targets

The recent demonstration of the Malloy TRV-150 drone launching an APKWS-guided munition at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah marks a significant milestone in the evolution of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for tactical operations. This event not only showcased the drone’s ability to deliver precision strikes but also underscored the growing role of multi-rotor platforms in modern combat environments.

TRV-150. Photo: baesystems.com

The TRV-150 is a product of collaboration between Malloy Aeronautics, a UK-based firm specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and SURVICE Engineering, a U.S. company focused on defense technology integration. Originally conceived as a logistics drone, the TRV-150 was designed to support tactical resupply missions in challenging environments. It features eight electric rotors, a modular payload system, and a rugged frame capable of operating in diverse conditions—from arctic cold to desert heat. The drone can carry up to 68 kilograms and has a variable range between 8 and 70 kilometers depending on payload weight and environmental factors.

TRV-150 drone launches APKWS. Photo: baesystems.com

The TRV-150’s architecture allows for rapid reconfiguration. While its primary role is cargo transport, the platform has been adapted to carry and launch munitions, including the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). This flexibility is central to its appeal for military applications, enabling a single platform to fulfill both logistical and offensive roles with minimal downtime between missions.

The APKWS is a precision-guided rocket system developed by BAE Systems. It transforms standard 70mm Hydra rockets into guided munitions using a semi-active laser guidance kit. This system has been deployed on various crewed aircraft, including the AH-64 Apache and F-16 Fighting Falcon, and is now being integrated into uncrewed platforms like the TRV-150. The APKWS offers a cost-effective solution for engaging lightly armored vehicles, small watercraft, and aerial threats. It boasts a range of approximately 6 kilometers and can achieve speeds up to 1,000 meters per second, making it suitable for both ground and air engagements.

During the Utah trials, the TRV-150 successfully launched APKWS rockets at both stationary ground targets and airborne drones. All test shots reportedly achieved direct hits, demonstrating the system’s reliability and accuracy. The drone’s ability to engage aerial threats—such as enemy drones and potentially helicopters—positions it as a viable countermeasure in environments where conventional air defense systems may be impractical or cost-prohibitive.

The integration of APKWS into the TRV-150 expands its operational scope significantly. In addition to supporting ground forces with resupply missions, the drone can now provide organic strike capabilities. This means units in the field could deploy TRV-150s for immediate response to threats without waiting for traditional air support. Moreover, the drone’s compact size and electric propulsion make it less detectable and more maneuverable than larger platforms, offering tactical advantages in contested zones.

When compared to attack helicopters, the TRV-150 presents a mixed set of trade-offs. On the one hand, it is far less expensive to produce and operate. Its electric motors reduce fuel dependency, and its modular design allows for quick adaptation to mission needs. It also eliminates the risk to human pilots, which is a critical consideration in high-threat environments. On the other hand, the TRV-150 lacks the speed, armor, payload capacity of traditional helicopters, and Its limited endurance. 

Furthermore, while helicopters can carry larger weapon loads and operate over longer distances, the TRV-150’s ability to be deployed in swarms or as part of layered defense systems offers a different kind of strategic value. It could complement manned platforms by handling lower-risk missions or serving as a first-response asset in situations where rapid deployment is essential.

The successful integration of APKWS into the Malloy TRV-150 drone represents a notable advancement in the field of unmanned combat systems. By bridging the gap between logistics and strike capabilities, the TRV-150 offers a versatile solution for modern military operations. Its ability to engage both ground and aerial targets, combined with its cost-efficiency and adaptability, makes it a compelling option for future battlefield scenarios. As autonomous technologies continue to evolve, platforms like the TRV-150 may play an increasingly central role in shaping tactical doctrine and force composition.