Archer Aviation, an innovative electric aircraft startup based in California, has made significant strides in the aerospace industry by entering into contracts worth up to $142 million with the US Air Force. The contracts are a testament to Archer’s pioneering electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL), which is touted to bring about a transformative shift in military aviation.
Under the agreement, Archer will supply up to six units of its Midnight eVTOL aircraft, along with sharing valuable flight test data and certification-related test reports. Additionally, the contracts encompass provisions for pilot training and the development of essential maintenance and repair processes.
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Introduced to the public in late 2022, the production version of Archer’s eVTOL showcases impressive capabilities, boasting a range of up to 32 kilometers and a payload capacity exceeding 400 kilograms. With a quick charging time of just ten minutes between flights, the Midnight aircraft is optimally designed for short-haul transportation applications.
Archer founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, expressed his excitement over the landmark agreement, emphasising the US Armed Forces’ commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology represented by their eVTOL aircraft. He acknowledged the national priority placed on the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology, indicating that Midnight is poised to play a crucial role in various military operations, including transport, logistics, and rescue missions.
This latest collaboration builds upon Archer’s previous partnership with the US Department of Defense, with fruitful joint projects dating back to 2021. In May, the company took another significant step by establishing an advisory board aimed at working closely with the government. The board’s mission is to facilitate direct communication with relevant government agencies, driving the advancement of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft and related technologies for practical applications.
eVTOL aircraft have gained popularity due to their cost-effectiveness in terms of acquisition, operation, and production, particularly in comparison to traditional helicopters. While their battery weight limits their range, they compensate with autonomous capabilities, making them ideal for evacuations, medical transport, and logistics operations in hazardous areas such as disaster zones, forest fires, and conflict zones. Archer’s Midnight aircraft, though piloted, stands out not only for its economic advantages but also for its significantly quieter flights in comparison to helicopters.
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In an effort to expand their eVTOL technology, Archer has forged a strategic partnership with auto company Stellantis to produce eVTOLs for passenger taxi aircraft. Construction of a joint manufacturing facility in Covington, Georgia, is already underway, with production slated to begin in mid-2024. The ambitious plan aims to manufacture up to 650 taxi aircraft eVTOLs annually, with the potential for future expansion to an impressive 2,300 units.
