# Lifter-Lite: Grid Aero drone

Canonical ID: `351ad18d-ba3a-4f08-b452-e37549ea7a1d`

- **Slug:** lifter-lite
- **Form factor:** aerial ([Drones](/drones))
- **Maturity stage:** prototype
- **Lifecycle:** active
- **Deployments registered:** 0

## Deployments

_No deployments registered for this model._

## Supply chain

_No verified supply relationships on file. Supply-chain coverage is being added across the registry; check back as the seed populates this model's suppliers._

_Suppliers appear when verified with at least two strong sources. Sources are append-only; corrections add new sources rather than rewrite history._

## Common questions

### What is Lifter-Lite?

The Lifter-Lite is Grid Aero's prototype autonomous cargo aircraft, designed as a low-cost 'flying pickup truck' to carry 2,000–10,000 lbs over thousands of miles. Built from off-the-shelf components with a simple aluminum-skin airframe and diesel powertrain, it operates from austere runways with under 1,500 ft takeoff distance. The aircraft received an FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate in July 2025 and is in ground/taxi testing ahead of first flight.

### How much does Lifter-Lite cost?

Lifter-Lite's price is not publicly disclosed. DEPLOY has no verified price on record for Lifter-Lite from Grid Aero. Physical-AI systems like this are often sold through enterprise contracts or operated as a service rather than at a public list price; check the manufacturer for the latest.

### Is Lifter-Lite actually deployed in the real world?

Lifter-Lite is at the prototype stage: it exists, but DEPLOY has no verified real-world deployment on record. Manufacturer capability claims should be read as claims pending independent verification.

### Who makes Lifter-Lite?

Lifter-Lite is made by Grid Aero, based in San Leandro, California, USA, founded in 2024.

### Can you buy Lifter-Lite?

Lifter-Lite is at prototype stage and is not yet available for sale.

### What are alternatives to Lifter-Lite?

On the DEPLOY registry, comparable aerial robots to Lifter-Lite include Zipline Platform 2 (P2), Skydio X10, Wing Delivery Aircraft, MQ-9 Reaper.

### How does Lifter-Lite compare to Zipline Platform 2 (P2)?

Lifter-Lite and Zipline Platform 2 (P2) (Zipline · 6 deployments) are both aerial robots on the DEPLOY registry. Lifter-Lite has 0 verified deployments on record. Compare both records for specs, safety, deployments, and verified-vs-claimed autonomy.

### What is Lifter-Lite's maturity stage?

Lifter-Lite is at the prototype stage on the DEPLOY maturity ladder (research, prototype, pilot, commercial, production). Prototype stage means demonstrations exist but commercial readiness is not yet established.

### Where is Lifter-Lite deployed?

No verified deployments of Lifter-Lite are currently on the DEPLOY registry. DEPLOY records deployments only when verified at a named site with a primary source; absence may reflect pre-deployment, research, or manufacturer-internal use.


## Sources (2)

1. https://www.axios.com/2026/01/26/grid-aero-series-a-cargo-drone
2. https://aeromorning.com/en/aerospace-defense-startup-grid-aero-raises-20m-series-a/

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