Joby Aviation Achieves First Flight Milestone with Hybrid Defense VTOL
Joby Aviation and L3Harris Technologies have marked a significant achievement with the successful inaugural flight of their autonomous hybrid vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, specifically designed for defense applications. The test flight was conducted at Joby’s Marina, California facility, signifying the swift transition from concept to operational prototype in a mere three months.
The aircraft incorporates Joby’s SuperPilot autonomy system and is powered by a gas turbine hybrid powertrain. This design aims to boost range and payload capacity for low-altitude defense missions. The collaboration strives to provide mission-ready VTOL aircraft that can operate autonomously or with optional pilot control.
“The future battlefield relies on unmanned systems augmenting manned platforms,” stated Jason Lambert, president of L3Harris’ intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance division. The companies are planning operational demonstrations by 2026, with the U.S. government earmarking approximately $9 billion for next-generation autonomous aircraft platforms.
Source: Flying Magazine