eVTOL: Archer and USAF sign partnership worth up to $142m

Archer Aviation, a manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has signed new contracts with the US Air Force with a total value of up to $142m.

The company says this new contracts signal the US military's recognition of the transformative potential Archer’s innovative eVTOL aircraft brings to US Armed Forces.

This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to USAF, the sharing of additional flight test data and certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations.

Archer has been partnering with the DoD since 2021 on a series of projects through the US Air Force’s AFWERX programme, with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime programme 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 recognises 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 could enhance 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 US military to transport, operate and maintain in the field.

“This historic agreement reflects the steadfast commitment by our Armed Forces to embrace the cutting-edge technology our eVTOL aircraft offer,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and CEO. “It’s clear that the development and commercialisation of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority. We look forward to working closely with the US Department of Defense and the US Air Force to integrate Midnight into their operational fleet with a focus on transport, logistics and rescue operations.”

“It is our mission to ensure the US continues to lead the world in developing and deploying emerging aerospace technology,” said Colonel Tom Meagher, the lead for AFWERX Agility Prime programmes. “eVTOL aircraft represent the cusp of the third revolution in aerospace, and these aircraft and their descendants will drive advances in capabilities and efficiency. Our contracts with Archer Aviation provide the US Department of Defense and US Air Force the opportunity to play a role in ensuring from the onset, and as the technology evolves, that we unlock the many benefits these aircraft have to offer the US military.”

www.archer.com