#United States #Alameda #Pyka #Pelican 2 #SLC Agrícola

Pyka and SLC Agrícola Strengthen Their Partnership

In a progressive stride toward innovation in large-scale agriculture, Pyka, a leading robotics firm specializing in autonomous aircraft, has announced a follow-on order from SLC Agrícola—one of Brazil's top agricultural producers. This partnership follows a successful operational season, wherein SLC Agrícola utilized Pyka’s Pelican 2 aircraft, showcasing significant enhancements in efficiency and spray quality across its farming operations.

Summary of the Expansion

The new order from SLC Agrícola includes an undisclosed quantity of Pelican 2 aircraft, set for delivery in time for the next growing season. This follows a notable previous season where the aircraft were deployed effectively at one of SLC Agrícola's major farms in Brazil. According to Ronei Sandri Sana, Digital Agriculture Manager at SLC Agrícola, the Pelican 2 demonstrated its capability of delivering reliable crop protection even under challenging field conditions, prompting the company to expand its fleet further.

Benefits Realized

Throughout the previous season, joint efforts between SLC Agrícola and Pyka led to extensive spray testing in collaboration with AgroEfetiva, an independent entity focused on pesticide application technology. The Pelican 2 aircraft, which boasts a payload capacity of 300 liters and can autonomously cover up to 100 hectares per hour, effectively combines the performance characteristics of larger aircraft with the operational simplicity of autonomous systems. Dr. Fernando Kassis Carvalho from AgroEfetiva noted that the Pelican 2's adaptability allows it to perform well in challenging conditions, including wet environments, and even targets nocturnal pests by operating at night.

Industry Impact and Future Expectations

Michael Norcia, Co-Founder and CEO at Pyka, shares that this expanded order from SLC Agrícola serves as a robust validation of the Pelican 2's capabilities in real-world applications. It emphasizes the potential of autonomous electric aircraft to create significant impacts for major agricultural producers globally. As they further this collaboration, both companies aim to champion sustainable agriculture solutions that not only enhance productivity but also position them at the forefront of the agricultural technology landscape.

About Pyka and SLC Agrícola

Pyka is at the forefront of innovation in autonomous aviation technology, developing systems that integrate advanced robotics with efficient aerial application solutions. Their craft is characterized by a proprietary combination of high-density electric motors, flight control software, and carbon fiber composite airframes, all crafted in-house in the USA.

SLC Agrícola, established in 1977, specializes in the cultivation of cotton, soybeans, and corn, in addition to livestock management. With a significant planted area of around 836 thousand hectares in the 2025/2026 crop year, the company is a leader in Brazil's agricultural sector. It continues to innovate and set benchmarks for growth and productivity across the region.

Conclusion

The enhanced partnership between Pyka and SLC Agrícola marks a pivotal moment in agricultural technology, as both entities work toward redefining farming practices through innovation and sustainability. The deployment of the Pelican 2 aircraft symbolizes a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in agricultural practices.