Archer Aviation, a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has announced that it has significantly expanded its partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD), United States (US) by signing new contracts with the US Air Force with a total value of up to $142 million.
This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the Air Force, the sharing of additional flight test data and certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations.
As a result of these contracts, Archer will create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.
Noteworthy, Archer has been partnering with the DoD since 2021 on a series of projects through the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies for DoD purposes.
Now, with Archer recently completing the manufacturing of its first Midnight aircraft, the DoD recognizes that with its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, target payload of approximately 1,000lbs, proprietary electric powertrain system, and low noise profile, Archer’s aircraft represents a potential paradigm shift in military aviation and operations.
These aircraft hold the promise of enhancing rapid response, agility, and operational effectiveness across a wide range of mission profiles, from personnel transport and logistics support to rescue operations and more.
Archer’s Midnight aircraft are expected to provide a much safer and quieter alternative to helicopters while being more cost-effective for the U.S. military to transport, operate and maintain in the field.
About Archer Aviation
Archer is into designing and developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for use in urban air mobility networks.
Based in Santa Clara, CA Archer’s mission is to unlock the skies, freeing everyone to reimagine how they move and spend time.
About Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
it is the sole organization leading the planning and execution of U.S. Air Force & U.S. Space Force science & technology programs.
Orchestrates a world-wide government, industry & academia coalition in the discovery, development & delivery of a wide range of revolutionary technology.
Further, it provides leading-edge warfighting capabilities keeping air, space and cyberspace forces the world’s best.
The organization has around 10,800 military, civilian and contractor personnel at 17 research sites executing an annual $4 Billion budget.
