Gap Drone Eyes Philippines Hub for Long-Range Cargo Drones
- LIESL HARIS
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
In a recent interview, Gap Drone co-founder and COO Benet Hare discussed the company's ambitious plans to revolutionise logistics with its long-range cargo delivery drones. Unlike typical battery-powered drones, Gap Drone's UAVs boast a 1,000km range thanks to a highly efficient combustion engine derived from military technology. These drones are sizable, featuring a 0.7 cubic meter cargo bay, capable of carrying substantial payloads. The company is currently testing a subscale prototype and anticipates its full-scale drone will be ready by June/July.
A key aspect of Gap Drone's strategy involves establishing a regional hub in the Philippines. Hare highlighted the country's skilled labor and resources, estimating that manufacturing in the Philippines could reduce costs by 30-40%. The potential market for these drones is vast, spanning civilian logistics, coastal surveillance, and even military applications. They can also serve as crucial first responders in disaster scenarios.
Gap Drone has already invested nearly $3 million in its initial concept and projects needing an additional $20 million to ramp up production. The target cost per drone is under $500,000, with an initial production goal of four drones by year's end. The company is actively engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to ensure regulatory compliance and safe operations. Safety measures include encrypted data servers, satellite and cell phone technology for control, designated "drone corridors," and anti-collision software.
Gap Drone envisions a future where one pilot can manage multiple drones, transforming the logistics landscape. While acknowledging geopolitical concerns, the company prioritises safe operations and is committed to collaborating with regulatory bodies to establish robust safety protocols.
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