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ZAI is involved in a Navy sponsored SBIR for the development of an atmospheric/ oceanographic research aircraft called the Pelican.
The Pelican is capable of both manned and autonomous flight modes.
Aircraft capabilities include:
Pusher configuration that allows unobstructed forward looking instrumentation
Large nose payload section for instruments (up to 350lbs) Instrument Installation in Pelican Aircraft
External wing mounted payloads available
Large fuselage volume available
Total useful load of ~ 2000lbs
Fuel capacity of up to 180 gal
Endurance capability in excess of 12 hrs
ZAI was awarded the prestigious Tibbets Award for Innovative Research for the successful implementation of this project