eVTOL pioneer Archer Aviation has bolstered its partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD) with a $142 million contract, a move reflecting the U.S. military’s trust in cutting-edge aerospace technology.
Archer initiated its collaborative endeavor with the DoD in 2021, as part of the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program. The goal was to explore the transformative potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies in military applications.
The extended agreement promises the delivery of up to six of Archer’s innovative Midnight aircraft to the Air Force. The contract also includes additional provisions for flight test data sharing, certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations.
Midnight, Archer’s groundbreaking eVTOL aircraft, is anticipated to augment rapid response, agility, and operational effectiveness across diverse mission profiles including personnel transport, logistics support, and rescue operations. Touted as a safer, quieter, and more cost-effective alternative to conventional helicopters, Midnight offers a promising new frontier in military transport.
Adam Goldstein, Archer’s Founder and CEO, underscored the national importance of eVTOL technology and looks forward to integrating Midnight into the operational fleet with a focus on enhancing military transport, logistics, and rescue operations.
The contract with Archer, as emphasized by USAF Colonel Tom Meagher, the lead for AFWERX Agility Prime programs, plays a key role in unlocking the benefits of the «third revolution in aerospace» – eVTOL aircraft for the U.S. military.
In addition, Archer’s Government Services Advisory Board, formed in May, seeks to facilitate direct engagement with government agencies, promoting the commercialization of eVTOL aircraft and related technologies.
