IRIA News

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The U.S. Air Force has taken delivery of its first Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Archer Aviation. The delivery is part of a $142 million contract signed in 2023, which marks a substantial step forward in the integration of cutting-edge technology into military operations.

The handover took place in Salinas, California, following a rigorous airworthiness assessment by the Pentagon. This evaluation was crucial to ensure that the aircraft met the stringent safety and performance standards required for military applications.

After the assessment, the Midnight aircraft was immediately deployed for a series of tests, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) flights, medical evacuation drills, and cargo transportation simulations. These trials are designed to demonstrate the aircraft’s versatility and potential in real-world scenarios.

“This delivery represents a pivotal moment not only for Archer but for the future of military aviation,” said Adam Goldstein, CEO of Archer Aviation. “Together, our goal is to prove Midnight’s potential and ensure the United States continues to lead the way with the world’s most advanced technology.”

Agility Prime program

The introduction of the Midnight eVTOL is a key component of the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime program, which is managed by its innovation arm, AFWERX. Agility Prime is a collaborative initiative aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of eVTOLs and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for various military applications. The program seeks to harness the potential of these advanced aircraft to enhance the operational capabilities of the U.S. military across different domains.

The Midnight aircraft delivered to the Air Force is the first of six eVTOLs that Archer Aviation will provide under the current contract. The company, based in California, has been working closely with AFWERX to explore the potential uses of eVTOL technology within the military. The versatility of eVTOLs like the Midnight could revolutionize military operations, providing new capabilities for ISR missions, logistics, and even battlefield casualty evacuation.

“Archer’s Midnight aircraft has the potential to significantly enhance our operational capabilities,” stated Col. Elliott Leigh, Director of AFWERX. “We look forward to continuing our work with our industry partners as we explore the ways that this advanced aircraft can contribute to the mission.”

Archer’s Midnight eVTOL is a state-of-the-art aircraft designed to push the boundaries of what is possible with electric aviation. The aircraft is operated by a single pilot and can carry up to four passengers. It is powered by 12 electric motors, each connected to independent battery packs, and features a dual-propeller system with two blades for vertical takeoff and landing and five for forward flight.

The standout feature of the Midnight includes its low-noise operation, which makes it particularly suited for missions that require stealth and minimal environmental impact. The aircraft can carry a payload of over 453.5 kilograms (1000 pounds) and can cruise at speeds of up to 241.4 kilometers per hour. With a range of up to 50 miles and a maximum altitude of 609.6 meters, the Midnight is well-suited for a variety of missions, from urban air mobility to tactical military operations.

In June 2024, the Midnight completed a transition flight at speeds exceeding 160.9 kilometers per hour over Santa Clara, demonstrating its ability to operate efficiently in both hover and forward flight modes. This successful test was a critical milestone in proving the aircraft’s capabilities and readiness for operational deployment.

As the U.S. Air Force continues to explore the potential of eVTOL technology, the Midnight aircraft is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of military aviation. By integrating advanced electric propulsion systems and innovative design features, the Midnight represents a significant leap forward in the quest for more sustainable, efficient, and versatile military aircraft.

The collaboration between Archer Aviation and the U.S. Air Force is poised to pave the way for new operational possibilities and ensure that the United States remains at the forefront of technological innovation in the aerospace sector.