Savback Helicopters, an independent helicopter and fixed-wing sales specialist, has signed a Letter of Intent with US-based manufacturer Mayman Aerospace for 25 Speeder units.
The agreement positions Savback as the first civilian customer. The deal is valued at US$45 million.
Savback chairman, Michael Savback, said that Speeder’s core attributes, including its incredible manoeuvrability, high-speed and payload capabilities, will be attractive to military customers in the Scandinavian region.
“The Speeder is an outstandingly versatile machine,” he said. “This aircraft is well placed to satisfy the growing needs of our military forces for vehicles that can support contested logistics, casevac and cargo missions in minimal time with maximum reliability. The autonomously piloted Speeder reduces human risk and strengthens existing fleet proficiencies. It’s a winning formula all around.”
David Mayman, CEO and founder of Mayman Aerospace, added, “This is a milestone moment for Speeder development as it demonstrates there is a real need for this disruptive, powerful technology.
“Michael Savback’s understanding of and vision for the operational potential of the aircraft highlights the game-changing capabilities of Speeder. We always planned to change how the world thinks about flying. The addition of Speeder AUVs to the Savback portfolio demonstrates that we have begun to achieve this goal.”
Comparable to a quadbike in size, the Speeder is designed to lift 1000 lb and fly 400 miles at over 500mph in unpiloted cargo mode. The company is currently working closely with the FAA toward flight certification. Initial test flights will be remotely controlled, with piloted tests anticipated towards the end of Q4 2023.
Faster and more powerful than electric drones and eVTOLs, smaller and dramatically less expensive than a helicopter and powered by regular, Zero Net Carbon or Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Speeder AUV is an entirely new class of aircraft.