Volarion VoloHaul 200

VH-200 Argus
Role	Transport aircraft
Manufacturer	Volarion Skylines (Civilian variants) Volarion Defence Systems (Military variants)
Designer	Volarion Industries
First flight	5 April 1998
Introduction	2000
Status	In service
Primary user	Belfrasian Air Force Federation Navy See Operators

The Volarion VoloHaul 200 'Argus' (VH-200) is a medium-sized cargo and logistics aircraft developed by Volarion Industries, designed to fulfill a wide range of civil and military transport needs. Introduced in the early 2000s, the VoloHaul 200 was created to address growing demand for a versatile, cost-efficient, and durable airframe capable of operating in diverse environments. The aircraft features a high-wing design, twin-turboprop engines, and a rear-loading ramp, making it suitable for transporting cargo, personnel, and specialized equipment. Its compact size and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities allow it to access remote and underdeveloped airstrips, making it a favored choice for humanitarian missions and military logistics.

The VH-200 has seen widespread adoption in both commercial and military markets, offering multiple configurations for cargo transport, passenger services, and medical evacuation. Its design emphasizes reliability and low operational costs, with modern avionics and fuel-efficient engines. The aircraft has been used extensively for disaster relief operations, regional freight transport, and military supply chain management. Over the years, Volarion Industries has introduced various upgrades and specialized variants of the VoloHaul 200, further cementing its position as a leading choice in the medium cargo aircraft category.

A key feature of the VH-200 is its modular interior, which can be rapidly reconfigured to suit mission-specific requirements. The aircraft can be fitted with palletized cargo systems, foldable seating for troop transport, or medical equipment for aeromedical evacuation. The military variant, designated the VH200-M, includes additional armor plating, advanced defensive systems, and expanded communication suites, allowing it to operate in hostile environments. Its civilian counterpart, the VoloHaul 200-C, has been a popular choice for regional cargo operators, especially in areas with limited infrastructure.

Since its introduction, the VoloHaul 200 has become a cornerstone of Volarion's cargo aircraft lineup, with over 1,500 units delivered globally by the mid-2020s. The aircraft's versatility has allowed it to serve in a wide range of roles, from Arctic supply missions to operations in tropical climates, demonstrating its adaptability to extreme conditions.

Design and development

The initial design phase of the VoloHaul 200 focused on creating a lightweight yet durable airframe to maximize payload capacity without compromising operational range. Engineers employed advanced aluminum alloys and composite materials to reduce the aircraft’s weight while ensuring structural integrity. The cargo bay was designed with a high degree of modularity, allowing the aircraft to accommodate a range of payloads, from standard cargo pallets to vehicles and specialized equipment. A rear loading ramp and a high-wing configuration were incorporated to facilitate easier loading and unloading operations, especially in austere environments.

The propulsion system of the VH-200 was initially powered by a pair of Atlas AE-200 turboprop engines, known for their balance of performance and fuel efficiency. These engines allowed the aircraft to achieve a cruising speed of approximately 450 knots with a range of up to 2,500 nautical miles, depending on the payload. Over time, engine upgrades were introduced to enhance performance. The second-generation models of the VH-200, introduced in the late 1980s, featured Orion MaxLift-220 turboprop engines, which provided increased thrust, reduced fuel consumption, and improved reliability in harsh environments.

In the early 2000s, the VH-200 underwent significant avionics upgrades as part of Volarion’s broader effort to modernize its fleet. The aircraft was outfitted with the NovaFlight Advanced Avionics Suite, which included a glass cockpit, enhanced navigation systems, and automated flight control features. These upgrades improved situational awareness for pilots and increased operational safety, particularly in low-visibility and night-time conditions. The avionics package also incorporated integrated diagnostic systems, reducing maintenance downtime and costs for operators.

Throughout its operational history, the VoloHaul 200 has been adapted to meet the specific needs of various users. In military configurations, the aircraft has been modified for roles such as paratrooper deployment, medical evacuation, and aerial refueling. Some military customers of the platform have utilised the aircraft for airborne radar duties or for maritime patrol efforts. Civilian operators, particularly in humanitarian and disaster relief sectors, have used the VoloHaul 200 for tasks such as delivering aid to remote locations and evacuating populations from crisis zones. Its versatility and reliability have made it a staple of medium-range cargo operations for several decades.

Variants

VH200M MP

VH-200C

Civilian Variant, capacity of 70 passengers, five pallets or nine tons of cargo.

VH-200M Striker

Military transport version, capacity for 70 troops, 50 paratroops, 36 stretchers, five 2.24 x 2.74 m pallets, or three light vehicles.

VH-200M Sentinel

Airborne early warning and control variant with a 360-degree radar dome. AESA-radar technology has been included with integrated IFF system. This version incorporates a rotating radome mounted on top of the fuselage, housing a multi-mode radar capable of tracking air and surface targets over a wide range. The aircraft is also equipped with secure communication systems for real-time data sharing with ground command centers and allied aircraft. The 200M AEW is used for airspace surveillance, command and control, and battle management roles in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.

VH-200M Proteus

Maritime patrol aircraft/Anti-submarine warfare. Equipped with a Poseidon Tactical Surveillance Suite, the 200M AEW features advanced radar systems, a magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) boom, and sonobuoy launchers to detect and track underwater threats. Additionally, the aircraft is armed with six underwing hardpoints for torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-ship missiles. Its extended endurance and range make it suitable for long-duration patrols over oceanic and coastal regions. The interior includes workstations for mission specialists, data analysts, and weapons operators.

VH-200M Warden

Dedicated Signals intelligence variant. Outfitted with advanced jamming equipment, the Warden provides critical electronic countermeasure support.

Operators

• Belfras

Specifications

Dimensions of the VoloHaul 200

VH200M AEW

• Crew: 3 (Pilot, co-pilot, loadmaster)
• Capacity:
  • Cargo: Up to 9 tons (20,000 lbs)
  • Passengers: 50-60 in passenger configuration, 70 in military configuration
  • Medical evacuation: 36 stretches plus medical personnel
• Length: 24.50 m (80 ft)
• Wing span: 29.2 m (96 ft)
• Height: 8.7 m (29 ft)
• Cargo hold dimensions:
  • Length: 12.7 m (42 ft)
  • Width: 3.2 m (10 ft)
  • Height: 2.4 m (7 ft 10 in)
• Engine Type: 2 x Valtrex VT-215 Turboprop
• Engine Power: 4,500 shp (3,356 kW)

Performance

• Cruising Speed: 255 kn (472 km/h; 293 mph)
• Ferry Range: 5,800 km (3,604 mi)

• Range with 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) payload: 5,250 km (3,262 mi)
• Range with 6,000 kg (13,228 lb) payload: 4,004 km (2,488 mi)

• Service Ceiling: 8,015 m (26,296 ft)
• Absolute Ceiling: 9,145 m (30,003 ft)
• Take-off run: 65 m (213 ft) Sea level, ISA
• Landing run: 320 m (1,050 ft) Sea level, ISA
• Hardpoints: six (optional: three under each wing)
• Hardpoint capacity: inboard pylons 800 kg (1,764 lb); centre pylons 500 kg (1,102 lb); outboard pylons 300 kg (661 lb)