Archer announced this week that it landed a $142 million contract for eVTOL Aircraft with the U.S. Air Force, which includes the delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the Air Force. (Photo: Archer)
In a significant advancement for both the eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) industry and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Archer Aviation Inc. has announced an expanded partnership with the U.S. Air Force, securing contracts valued up to $142 million. This development testifies to the burgeoning role of advanced aerial technology in national defense strategies and operational agility.
Archer Aviation, a leading player in the eVTOL domain, is now poised to supply the U.S. military with up to six units of its Midnight aircraft. This contract not only involves the delivery of aircraft but also encompasses data sharing regarding flight tests and certification, pilot training, and the establishment of maintenance and repair operations. This engagement will fortify U.S. national defense capabilities with novel, forward-thinking technologies.
The DoD’s recognition of Archer’s transformative eVTOL aircraft builds upon a partnership that commenced in 2021. Throughout this period, Archer has been diligently working alongside the DoD through the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program. Their collective goal has been to assess the revolutionary potential of vertical flight and eVTOL technologies for defense applications.
As Archer successfully wraps up manufacturing its first Midnight aircraft, the DoD has identified its unique features that could potentially transform military aviation. The aircraft’s vertical take-off and landing capabilities, an impressive target payload of approximately 1,000 pounds, proprietary electric powertrain system, and low noise profile could significantly enhance rapid response, operational agility, and mission effectiveness. Such technology could improve diverse mission profiles, from personnel transport and logistics support to rescue operations.
Archer’s CEO, Adam Goldstein, highlighted the commitment of the U.S. Armed Forces towards embracing this state-of-the-art technology, saying, “It’s clear that the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Air Force to integrate Midnight into their operational fleet with a focus on transport, logistics, and rescue operations.”
Colonel Tom Meagher of AFWERX Agility Prime underscored the pivotal role that eVTOL aircraft play in the future of aerospace. “eVTOL aircraft represent the cusp of the third revolution in aerospace, and these aircraft and their descendants will drive advances in capabilities and efficiency,” he remarked in the announcement from Archer. “Our contracts with Archer Aviation provide the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. 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 U.S. military.”
The implications of this partnership for the eVTOL industry are extensive. By securing this significant contract, Archer solidifies the pivotal role of eVTOL technology in future military operations. The deal also affirms the industry’s commitment to improving safety and cost-effectiveness in aviation, as Archer’s Midnight aircraft promise a safer, quieter, and more economical alternative to traditional helicopters.
Archer’s efforts are also bolstered by the recent formation of the company’s Government Services Advisory Board, which comprises retired military leaders and aims to advance the consideration and implementation of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft and related technologies within U.S. government and public safety agencies.
As the industry continues to evolve, this partnership showcases how private eVTOL firms and government entities can collaborate, unlocking technological potential and paving the way for a new era in aviation.