With both military and commercial applications ultimately in mind, the company has gradually expanded the flight envelope of the prototype in recent tests.

The AirMule first caught our eye in 2013, when it took to the skies (albeit on a leash) in a series of automated test flights. Tactical Robotics designed the craft for cargo delivery, humanitarian relief efforts and to carry wounded or sick people from the battlefield or other emergency situations. Its small size and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capabilities let it operate in places that regular helicopters just can't reach

With a projected payload size of up to 500 kg (1,102 lb) over distances of 50 km (31 miles), the Cormorant could one day operate as an aerial freighter in the commercial sector, carting goods between ports and distribution centers. From there, smaller delivery drones could make the last mile run of individual orders to customers' doors.