The APUS 25 is a long-endurance, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platform built for extended missions in complex operational conditions. As a quadcopter, it can take off and land from any flat surface, providing flexibility for land and maritime users.
The system is powered by a centrally located internal combustion engine (ICE) that operates at a fixed RPM. It drives four rotors through a patented variable-pitch mechanism, allowing for improved flight efficiency and control.
This propulsion design enables hovering and long-duration missions in high wind conditions. The engine is liquid-cooled and supports the use of multiple fuel types, including Jet-A1, JP5, JP8, and gasoline.
The APUS 25 can achieve up to 8 hours of mission endurance and carry up to 10 kilograms of useful payload. It also delivers 300 watts of continuous electric power to support onboard systems.
The quadcopter has a maximum take-off weight under 25 kilograms. It is capable of operating at altitudes up to 11,000 feet and in wind speeds of up to 23 knots.
Electrically powered multirotor drones are commonly used by military forces but face limitations in endurance, weather tolerance, and range. IAI developed the APUS 25 from the baseline to overcome these gaps and offer a higher payload-to-endurance ratio.
The platform’s design provides precise manoeuvrability, enabling tight turns and rapid altitude changes. These features are essential for missions requiring agility, including shipboard operations and tactical ISR tasks.
