Nepali Army to receive Robinson SPIRIT uncrewed aircraft

Robinson Unmanned is to supply its SPIRIT small uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) to the Nepali Army under a US Foreign Military Sales contract, expanding the military’s drone capabilities in challenging operating environments.

The agreement follows the Nepali Army’s extensive use of drones during recent flooding, when uncrewed aircraft supported search and rescue (SAR) operations and delivered essential supplies to communities cut off by damaged infrastructure.

During the August/September 2026 response, reconnaissance drones were used to support searches, while a fleet of DJI FlyCart 100 aircraft transported food, medicine, and other supplies to isolated communities. Helicopters were simultaneously deployed for rescue operations.

The new contract, awarded to Robinson subsidiary Ascent AeroSystems through the US Naval Air Systems Command, includes SPIRIT aircraft, mission payloads, spare parts, operator training, and technical support.

The SPIRIT is a compact vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft featuring a coaxial rotor configuration and modular architecture that allows different sensors and communications equipment to be integrated according to operational requirements.

Robinson says the aircraft can operate at altitudes of up to 14,600ft above mean sea level, withstand winds exceeding 40mph, and function in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 130°F (-40°C to 54°C).

These capabilities are relevant to Nepal’s mountainous terrain, where severe weather, high elevations, and limited ground access can complicate emergency response.

The aircraft is classified as a Group 1 UAS and has received Blue UAS clearance under the US Department of War’s drone assessment framework.

Robinson has not disclosed the contract value, delivery schedule, or the specific missions for which the Nepali Army will use the SPIRIT aircraft.