We're competing to build one of the most capable heavy-lift drones ever flown
The DARPA Lift Challenge is a $6.5 million prize competition to design drones that can carry payloads more than four times their weight—a breakthrough that would transform military logistics, disaster relief, and commercial delivery. This summer, teams will go head-to-head in live flight trials, racing a 5-nautical-mile course while hauling over 110 pounds.
Team of five with diverse backgrounds from aerospace, chemical engineering, industry software, applied-research, AI, and the start-up space. We are applying our unique knowledge at the intersection of drone flight and rocketry to compete in the 2026 DARPA Lift Challenge.
December 15, 2025
— Firefly Alliance officially founded.
January 15, 2026
— First full team meeting; design direction locked.
March 2026
— Prototype build complete. Competition acceptance notification expected.
Summer 2026
— Live flight trials in Idaho.
Building a competitive heavy-lift drone isn't cheap. Our primary costs fall into three categories:
Workspace — A dedicated workshop space where the team can fabricate, assemble, and test safely. Monthly rental in our area runs around $500–1,000.