Archer signs contracts with U.S. Air Force for six Midnight aircraft, support operations

Archer Aviation Inc. (Santa Clara, Calif., U.S.) announced that it has significantly expanded its partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD) by signing new contracts with the U.S. Air Force (USAF) valued at up to $142 million. The new contracts are part of a new execution phase of the partnership, which includes delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the USAF, the sharing of additional flight test data and certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations. Archer reports these contracts will provide innovative capabilities and strengthen the U.S. national defense.

Archer has been partnering with the DOD since 2021 on a series of projects through the USAF’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technologies for DOD purposes. Archer has recently completed the manufacturing of its first Midnight aircraft, offering an electrical powertrain with VTOL capabilities, a target payload of ≈1,000 pounds and a low noise profile. Archer reports that its aircraft represents a paradigm shift in military aviation and operations, with the potential to provide enhanced rapid response, agility and operational effectiveness across a wide range of mission profiles, from personnel transport and logistics support to rescue operations and more. Archer’s Midnight aircraft are expected to provide a much safer and quieter alternative to helicopters while being more cost-effective for the U.S. military to transport, operate and maintain in the field.

“This historic agreement reflects the steadfast commitment by our Armed Forces to embrace the cutting-edge technology our eVTOL aircraft offer,” says Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer. “It’s clear that the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Air Force to integrate Midnight into their operational fleet with a focus on transport, logistics and rescue operations.”

Archer also recently announced the formation of the company’s Government Services Advisory Board in May. The goal of the advisory board is to allow Archer to more fully engage with U.S. government and public safety agencies to explore opportunities to commercialize its eVTOL aircraft. The members of this advisory board are assisting and facilitating Archer’s direct engagement with appropriate government agencies and officials to advance both consideration and implementation of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft and related technologies.

The board includes retired four-star general Steve Townsend, retired three-star lieutenant general David A. Krumm, retired three-star vice admiral Ron Boxall, retired two-star General Clayton M. Hutmacher, retired two-star General Bill Gayler and retired chief warrant officer four, Michael J. Durant.