Archer Aviation has received a $142-million contract to supply up to six Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for the US Air Force.
The delivery will include corresponding flight test and certification data, pilot training, and aircraft sustainment services.
The agreement builds on the company’s previous work for the air force’s AFWERX Agility Prime program, which validated the vertical flight market and eVTOL solutions for US Defense applications.
For the initiative, Archer produced its first Midnight eVTOL platform that can carry up to 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms) of payload with low noise operability.
“This historic agreement reflects the steadfast commitment by our Armed Forces to embrace the cutting-edge technology our eVTOL aircraft offer,” Archer CEO and Founder Adam Goldstein stated.
“It’s clear that the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority.”
Securing Aerospace Technology Advantage
Once delivered, the Midnight fleet will serve as a safer, stealthier alternative to helicopters while maintaining cost-effective operability across different mission profiles, including personnel transport, logistics support, and rescue deployments.
“It is our mission to ensure the US continues to lead the world in developing and deploying emerging aerospace technology,” Agility Prime Lead Col. Tom Meagher explained.
“eVTOL aircraft represent the cusp of the third revolution in aerospace, and these aircraft and their descendants will drive advances in capabilities and efficiency.”
“Our contracts with Archer Aviation provide the US Department of Defense and US Air Force the opportunity to play a role in ensuring from the onset, and as the technology evolves, that we unlock the many benefits these aircraft have to offer the US military.”