Spars and members attached to the main fame are constructed from titanium aluminide MMC and refractive composites with titanium root fittings to transfer bending moments to the structural web. They form a structural web running the length of the fuselage encompassing the payload volume. These light, oxidation-resistant MMC structural members are formed from high-modulus, high-strength gold and chrome doped zirconium ( Zr) oxide reinforced fibers in a titanium aluminide matrix. The Cheyenne's principle frame is constructed from superplastic-formed diffusion-bonded metal matrix composites (MMC). Aft of the space is a raised tail assembly which mounts the ramrocket engines and control surfaces. Forward of the payload space is the cockpit and the mounts for the lift engines. The UD-4L Cheyenne's lifting-body is built around it's 103.6 cubic meter internal payload bay flanked to the sides and aft by the the tri-skid undercarriage.
In addition to carrying its large payload, the Cheyenne can operate in the close-support gunship role by deploying weapons pods and hardpoints for rockets and missiles, as well as using its own internal gun. The Cheyenne's unique flexibility comes from its ability to lift itself into orbit under its own power from unprepared landing sites with the aid of its vertical take-off (VTOL) capability. Derived from an original Department of Defense requirement formulated at the end of the Tientsin conflict for a multi-role light aerospace shuttle capable of lifting heavy payloads up to 16,000 kg.
Considered a versatile dropship and tactical transport, the Cheyenne was employed by the United States Colonial Marine Corps.