US companies Joby Aviation and L3harris Technologies have announced a new strategic partnership for the development of a hybrid-electric Evol aircraft focused on military applications.
The project provides for the adaptation of the model Joby S4originally fully electrical, to operate with a new propulsion system based on gas turbine, creating a concept of vertical or autonomous vertical take -off and landing (VTOL) aircraft.
According to the press release, the goal is to evaluate the military skills of the aircraft on low altitude missions, with emphasis on operational versatility. The aircraft will be designed for both crew and autonomous operations, expanding its applicability in different mission scenarios.
The calendar provides that experimental flights with the new Ibrid Evol to begin by the end of 2025, with operational demonstrations scheduled for 2026.
Despite its main commitment in the civil sector, Joby already has a story of collaboration with the US Air Force, having provided prototypes of electric aircraft in the program now concluded Agility Prime. In recent years, the company has received over $ 130 million from the Air Force to support the development of its vertical take -off technology.
However, found that fully electrical battery-powered aircraft have a limited autonomy, especially for military operations in the Indo-Pacific, the US Air Force has diverted its focus in 2024 towards hybrid-electric propulsion solutions, more suitable for current tactical and operational needs.
The new partnership between Joby and L3harris aims to fill this gap, combining Joby’s experience in advanced air mobility with the integration and defense skills of L3harris.
Source and image: Joby Aviation. This content was created with the help of the AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
