American companies Joby Aviation and L3Harris Technologies have announced a new strategic partnership to develop hybrid electric eVTOL aircraft, focusing on military use.
This project was originally a completely electric model.Joby S4The new gas turbine-based propulsion system will be improved to be operational, creating the concept of a vertical take-off and landing aircraft (VTOL) that can be used by pilots or unmanned.
The announcement states that it aims to assess military capabilities in low-altitude missions and focuses on operational diversity. The aircraft is compatible with both manned and unmanned operations, increasing applicability in a variety of mission scenarios.
The schedule is to begin test flights for the new hybrid eVTOL by the end of 2025, and to launch a demonstration flight in 2026.
Joby operates primarily in the civilian market, but has a track record of working with the US Air Force and has provided motor prototypes in the former Agility Prime program. Over the past few years, the company has received more than $130 million in funding from the US Air Force to help develop vertical take-off and landing technology.
However, fully electric battery-powered aircraft have limited ranges, particularly in military operations in the Indo-Pacific region, so the US Air Force shifted its focus in 2024 to hybrid electric propulsion systems suitable for tactical and operational requirements.
The new partnership between Joby and L3Harris aims to close this gap, combining Joby’s advanced air mobility technology with L3Harris’ integration and defensive capabilities.
Source and Images:Joby Aviation. This content was created with the help of AI and proofread by the editorial team.
