Animal Dynamics is a UK technology company specializing in autonomous heavy-lift uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). Their flagship product, the Stork STM parafoil UAV, has been selected for the Royal Navy’s Uncrewed Aerial Systems Heavy Lift Challenge (UASHLC) Phase 2. This unique parafoil UAV is capable of flying up to 400km fully laden with a 135kg payload, making it ideal for resupply missions.

The Stork STM will undergo marinisation, where it will receive integration of SATCOM for secure satellite communications and a sonobuoy dispenser for various mission types. Additionally, wing development work will be conducted to include a retraction capability, making it safe for deck operations. Animal Dynamics' Stork STM stands out from other heavy-lift multirotor and hybrid VTOL designs due to its ground-breaking parafoil design.

With the ability to take-off and land in short distances on unprepared ground, it overcomes many range limitations. Selected by the UK Ministry of Defence and the Royal Navy, Animal Dynamics has proven the capabilities of the Stork STM and looks forward to demonstrating its performance enhancements and path to commercialization in the next stage of flight trials