The Ultimate in Disposable Drones?

Why It Matters

Affordable, quickly assembled cardboard drones could democratize counter‑UAS training, lowering costs for militaries and security agencies worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• Cardboard drone offers ultra‑low‑cost, mass‑produced airframes for military applications.
• Fixed‑wing design provides 80 km range and 80‑minute endurance.
• Carries up to 1.5 kg payload, including batteries and sensors.
• Flat‑pack kit assembles in 5‑10 minutes, no specialized tools.
• Being trialed for counter‑UAS missions with Japanese government partners.

Summary

At the Singapore Air Show 2026, Aerospace Magazine showcased a novel disposable aircraft built entirely from cardboard. Marketed as the "Airway 150" drone, the platform is positioned as a low‑cost, mass‑producible solution for counter‑UAS training and operations.

The fixed‑wing drone boasts an 80‑kilometre range and 80‑minute flight time, powered by an electric motor and capable of carrying a 1.5 kg payload that includes batteries and optional sensors. Its flat‑pack design can be assembled on site in five to ten minutes, requires no exotic materials, and operates via 2.4/4 GHz manual or autonomous control with built‑in flight stabilization.

During the interview, the company representative emphasized, "It's a real one, not a model aircraft," and highlighted that any cardboard manufacturer can produce the airframe. He also noted that the system is currently undergoing trials with the Japanese government for counter‑drone applications.

If the concept scales, defense forces could field inexpensive, rapidly deployable target drones for training and electronic‑warfare exercises, reducing reliance on expensive, reusable platforms and reshaping procurement strategies for low‑intensity conflict scenarios.

Original Description

Exhibiting at the Singapore Airshow 2026 was Japan’s Air Kamuy, with a low-cost UAV made from standard cardboard. AEROSPACE Editor in Chief Tim Robinson FRAeS finds out more.