Pyka, a designer and manufacturer of large-scale autonomous electric aircraft, has successfully raised $40 million in a Series B funding round. The investment was led by Obvious Ventures and included contributions from both new and existing investors, such as Piva Capital, Prelude Ventures, Metaplanet Holdings, and Y Combinator.
The company is quickly commercializing its autonomous electric aircraft technology for some of the world’s most critical flight missions, which encompass agricultural crop protection, commercial cargo transportation, and defense logistics.
Currently, Pyka produces the largest commercially approved uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) in the United States and operates actively in the U.S., Central America, and Brazil. Its impressive client roster includes major players in agriculture, commercial cargo, and defense logistics, such as Dole, Embraer, Sierra Nevada Company, Heinen Brothers Agra Services, and Skyports Drone Services. Notably, in early 2024, Pyka delivered three aircraft to the United States Air Force under the Agility Prime program.
The new funding will accelerate Pyka’s expansion across its dual-use product line. On the commercial front, the investment will enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, increase production of its Pelican Spray and Pelican Cargo products, and facilitate expanded operations with both U.S. and international clients. Moreover, the Series B funds will further the development of new capabilities aimed at supporting contested logistics operations for the U.S. Department of Defense and its allies.
Among Pyka’s innovative products is the Pelican Spray, a fully autonomous and 100% electric aircraft with a capacity of 1,320 lbs, specifically designed for intricate agricultural tasks. This aircraft features cutting-edge spray precision and chemical drift reduction technologies, ensuring safe, clean, and cost-effective crop protection on a large scale. Pelican Spray holds the distinction of being the largest FAA-approved UAS for agricultural use and is recognized as the most productive spray UAS available.
Additionally, Pyka offers Pelican Cargo, the first large-scale autonomous electric cargo aircraft capable of carrying heavy payloads over long distances without requiring airport facilities. This 100% electric aircraft can transport up to 400 lbs across a range of 200 miles. Pyka has also collaborated with Sierra Nevada Company to introduce RUMRUNNER, a modified version of Pelican Cargo, for use by the U.S. Department of Defense in sustainment operations within contested logistics environments.
All of Pyka’s aircraft feature its proprietary autonomous flight engine and all-electric propulsion system, enabling safe operations in some of the world’s most challenging environments while delivering significant cost savings to customers.