Electra Aero Signs Contract With U.S Air Force Electra Aero today announced that it has signed a contract with the United States Air Force. The contract is to strengthen advanced air mobility markets through the development of hybrid-electric propulsion systems for electric ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. "Electra is thrilled to be working in tandem with the U.S. Air Force and its innovative Agility Prime team to accelerate the tech transition of eSTOL into the commercial marketplace. These next-gen, low-carbon systems will solve several critical defense-related capability gaps while leveraging affordable commercial marketplace solutions," says Ben Marchionna, Electra's Director of Technology & Innovation.
Electra Aero is looking to have Ground testing this year followed by flight testing on the company's technology demonstrator aircraft in 2022. That aircraft, which carries two people and can take off and land in distances as short as 100-feet, will use this hybrid-electric turbo-generator to power eight electric motors and charge a custom battery system during flight. There is no need to stop for re-charging, a characteristic that is sure to appeal to a broad base of operators. Electra's first commercial product, with FAA certification planned in 2026, is designed to carry up to seven passengers and a pilot as far as 500 miles. For more information: Electra Aero, Inc. www.electra.aero ***
