UAV & Drones
Archer Expands Powertrain Tech to Third Parties in Defense Sector
Archer Aviation supplies its electric powertrain to Anduril and EDGE for the Omen Autonomous Air Vehicle, opening new revenue in defense markets.
In a significant strategic shift, Archer Aviation has announced it will begin supplying its proprietary electric powertrain technology to third-party companies. This move marks the first time the eVTOL developer will commercialize its core technology outside of its own aircraft, opening up a new and potentially lucrative revenue stream. The decision underscores a broader trend in the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector, where companies are increasingly looking to diversify their business models beyond future air taxi services, particularly by tapping into the defense and logistics markets.
The inaugural partners for this new venture are U.S.-based defense technology firm Anduril Industries and the UAE-based defense and technology conglomerate, EDGE Group. The collaboration, unveiled at the Dubai Airshow, will see Archer’s powertrain integrated into the “Omen” Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV), a new hover-to-cruise aircraft co-developed by Anduril and EDGE. This partnership not only validates the performance and reliability of Archer’s technology but also plants a firm flag in the international defense market, an area proving to be a key early adopter of eVTOL-related innovations.
This development is more than just a supply deal; it’s a calculated move that leverages Archer’s investment in vertical integration. By designing and manufacturing its battery packs and electric engines in-house at its U.S. facilities, Archer has cultivated a powertrain that meets the stringent safety and performance standards required for aviation. As Archer’s Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, noted, the company views its Midnight aircraft not just as a vehicle, but as a “platform that plays host to a wide range of new and exciting aerospace technologies.” This deal is the first tangible expression of that platform-based strategy, signaling a future where Archer’s innovations could power a diverse array of aerial vehicles.
At the heart of this agreement is Archer’s proprietary electric powertrain, a system meticulously developed for its flagship Midnight eVTOL. This isn’t just an off-the-shelf solution; it’s a vertically integrated system, meaning Archer controls the design and manufacturing of its most critical components, particularly the battery pack. This strategic decision allows for a high degree of optimization, ensuring the powertrain delivers the necessary performance, safety, and reliability demanded by aviation applications. The system is engineered to be dual-use, capable of powering both commercial and defense aircraft, a versatility that is now being proven with the Omen AAV integration.
The powertrain’s design is a key enabler for the “hover-to-cruise” flight profile of vehicles like Omen and Midnight. This capability allows for vertical takeoff and landing, like a helicopter, combined with the efficiency of a fixed-wing aircraft in forward flight. Manufacturing for this advanced system is handled at Archer’s extensive facilities in the U.S., which span nearly one million square feet and leverage automation in key production areas. This industrial capacity is crucial for scaling production to meet the demands of both its own aircraft fleet and third-party customers like Anduril and EDGE Group.
The selection of Archer’s powertrain by established defense players serves as a powerful external validation of its technology. For a company still navigating the path to commercial air taxi certification, having its core systems chosen for a defense platform provides significant credibility. It demonstrates that the technology is robust and reliable enough for mission-critical applications, a point that resonates with regulators, investors, and future customers alike. This deal effectively de-risks a core element of Archer’s business model by proving its value in a demanding, real-world application before its own air taxi service is even operational.
“While most see our Midnight eVTOL as an aircraft, we view Midnight as a platform that plays host to a wide range of new and exciting aerospace technologies that will be leveraged way beyond our own aircraft.”, Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer
The partnership brings together three distinct players at the intersection of aerospace and defense. Anduril Industries is a U.S. company known for its focus on autonomous systems for defense applications. EDGE Group is a major UAE-based conglomerate specializing in defense and technology for military, security, and law enforcement clients. This collaboration deepens an existing relationship between Archer and Anduril, which first partnered in late 2024 to develop a hybrid-powered version of the Midnight aircraft for defense purposes. The success of that initial work appears to have paved the way for this new, more expansive agreement.
The first product to benefit from this trilateral pact is the Omen Autonomous Air Vehicle. Co-developed and set to be co-produced by Anduril and EDGE in the UAE, the Omen is a hover-to-cruise aircraft designed for defense and advanced logistics missions. The immediate demand for such a platform is clear, as the UAE government has already placed an initial commitment to acquire 50 Omen units. This foundational order provides a solid start for the production line and ensures an immediate application for Archer’s supplied powertrains. This alliance highlights a critical trend within the AAM industry: the pivot toward defense. As eVTOL companies face lengthy and complex regulatory timelines for commercial passenger services, many are turning to the defense sector to generate near-term revenue and demonstrate their technology’s capabilities in a less constrained environment. By supplying a core component to a defense-focused vehicle, Archer gains revenue, operational data, and market validation, all while continuing its primary mission of certifying the Midnight aircraft for urban air mobility. It’s a pragmatic strategy that builds resilience and diversifies the company’s market exposure.
Archer’s decision to supply its electric powertrain to third parties is a watershed moment for the company and a telling indicator for the entire AAM industry. By commercializing its core technology, Archer is evolving from a vehicle manufacturer into a technology platform provider. This move not only creates a new, high-potential revenue stream but also strategically validates its engineering prowess through adoption by credible defense partners. The deal with Anduril and EDGE Group for the Omen AAV is a powerful first step, and as CEO Adam Goldstein suggested, it is expected to be the “first of multiple partnerships,” hinting at a broader strategy to embed Archer’s technology across the aerospace sector.
Looking ahead, this strategy could significantly influence the competitive landscape. While the ultimate goal for many eVTOL companies remains the launch of urban air taxi networks, the path to profitability may be paved with such B2B technology deals, particularly in the defense and logistics sectors. This approach allows companies to monetize their extensive R&D investments sooner, build manufacturing experience, and establish a market presence while navigating the long road of civil aviation certification. For Archer, this pivot doesn’t detract from its air taxi ambitions; rather, it strengthens the company’s financial and technological foundation, making the entire enterprise more robust and adaptable to the market’s realities.
Question: What did Archer Aviation announce? Question: What is the Omen Autonomous Air Vehicle? Question: Why is this deal significant for Archer?
Archer’s Strategic Pivot: Powertrain Tech Goes Third-Party
The Core Technology: A Closer Look at Archer’s Powertrain
Strategic Alliance: Anduril, EDGE Group, and the Omen AAV
Conclusion: A New Trajectory for Archer and AAM
FAQ
Answer: Archer announced it will supply its proprietary electric powertrain technology to third-party manufacturers, starting with Anduril Industries and EDGE Group for their Omen Autonomous Air Vehicle.
Answer: The Omen is a “hover-to-cruise” autonomous aircraft designed for defense and advanced logistics. It is being co-developed and co-produced by Anduril and EDGE Group in the UAE and will be the first third-party vehicle to use Archer’s electric powertrain.
Answer: It marks the first time Archer is commercializing its core technology for a third party, creating a new revenue stream. It also serves as a strong validation of its powertrain’s performance and reliability, particularly within the demanding defense sector.
Sources
Photo Credit: Archer Aviation
UAV & Drones
Oklahoma Advances Autonomous Aviation with FlightHorizon Air Traffic System
Oklahoma deploys Vigilant Aerospace’s FlightHorizon to enable safe BVLOS drone operations and expands airspace coverage at its Air & Space Port.
This article is based on an official press release from Vigilant Aerospace and public reporting.
In a decisive move to secure its position as a national leader in the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) sector, the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has successfully deployed a cutting-edge air traffic management system at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port. The initiative, which began with a Contracts awarded to Oklahoma City-based Vigilant Aerospace in February 2025, utilizes the company’s FlightHorizon software to enable safe Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) drone operations.
According to the official announcement, the project aims to replace traditional human “visual observers” with “electronic observers.” This shift allows unmanned aircraft to fly longer distances without the logistical burden of a chase plane, a capability essential for the commercial viability of drone delivery and advanced air mobility services. As of early 2026, reports indicate the system is fully operational and undergoing significant expansion.
The core of this infrastructure project is Vigilant Aerospace’s FlightHorizon command-and-control system. The Software creates a real-time “digital twin” of the airspace by fusing data from ground-based Radar-Systems and aircraft transponders. This allows operators to visualize and track air traffic across a vast area, ensuring that unmanned systems can safely coexist with general aviation.
The system’s reliability is rooted in its development history. FlightHorizon is built on two exclusively licensed NASA patents invented at the Armstrong Flight Research Center. According to technical specifications released regarding the project, these patents cover:
By acting as an automatic detect-and-avoid system, the software predicts flight trajectories and issues avoidance commands to pilots or autopilots, meeting critical FAA safety standards.
“Oklahoma understands the importance of the autonomous aviation industry for the state and our nation and is taking the lead… We are proud that our technology can serve as the cornerstone of this initiative.”
Kraettli Epperson, CEO of Vigilant Aerospace (Feb 2025)
While the initial contract was signed in early 2025, recent updates confirm the project has moved rapidly into the execution phase. According to operational reports from September 2025, the system was successfully installed and active at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port in Burns Flat, one of only 14 FAA-licensed spaceports in the United States.
During live training exercises conducted in late 2025, the system demonstrated the ability to correlate data from mobile surveillance radars (provided by partner DeTect, Inc.) and ADS-B transponders. This capability allowed instructors to monitor live flights alongside virtual scenarios, validating the system’s utility for complex training environments. Following the successful initial deployment, the coverage area is currently being expanded. Data indicates the sensor network is growing from an initial 5,000 square kilometers to approximately 10,000 square kilometers. This massive corridor is designed to facilitate long-range autonomous flight testing, positioning Oklahoma as a prime location for aerospace companies preparing for future regulatory shifts.
Structurally, the state’s oversight of this sector has also evolved. In July 2025, the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) was merged into the ODAA, consolidating state aerospace and space oversight under a single agency to streamline operations and funding management.
The timing of Oklahoma’s investment, funded via the 2022 “Preserving Rural Economic Prosperity” (PREP) fund, appears strategically aligned with federal regulatory timelines. With the aviation industry anticipating the finalization of the FAA’s Part 108 rule in 2026, which will normalize BVLOS operations, Oklahoma is effectively building a “field of dreams” infrastructure.
By establishing the physical safety net (radars) and the digital framework (FlightHorizon) ahead of the rule, the state removes a significant capital barrier for private companies. Instead of building their own surveillance networks, Drones operators can plug into Oklahoma’s existing system. This approach not only attracts commercial drone delivery and air taxi firms but also complements Vigilant Aerospace’s growing portfolio, which includes a spot on a $46 billion U.S. Air-Forces contract awarded in June 2025.
What is BVLOS? Where is the system located? Who funded this project?
Oklahoma Cements Status as Autonomous Aviation Hub with Advanced Air Traffic System
Establishing a “Digital Twin” of the Airspace
NASA-Licensed Technology
Operational Status and Network Expansion
Expanding the Safety Corridor
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
BVLOS stands for Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight. It refers to drone operations where the pilot cannot see the aircraft with their naked eye. Safe BVLOS is required for long-distance applications like package delivery, infrastructure inspection, and agriculture.
The system is deployed at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port at Clinton-Sherman Airport in Burns Flat, Oklahoma.
The project was funded by the Oklahoma Legislature through the “Preserving Rural Economic Prosperity” (PREP) fund.
Sources
Photo Credit: Vigilant Aerospace
UAV & Drones
Barq Group and Elroy Air Launch $200M VTOL Cargo Aircraft JV in Abu Dhabi
Barq Group and Elroy Air form a $200M joint venture to manufacture Chaparral hybrid-electric VTOL cargo aircraft in Abu Dhabi, targeting MENA middle-mile logistics.
This article is based on an official press release from Elroy Air and Barq Group.
Barq Group, a leader in smart mobility based in the United Arab Emirates, and Elroy Air, a U.S. developer of autonomous aerospace technology, have signed an initial agreement to establish a joint venture (JV) valued at $200 million. The partnership focuses on establishing a Manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi to produce the Chaparral, a hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) cargo aircraft.
According to the announcement, the joint venture aims to address the critical “middle-mile” logistics gap across the Middle East and North Africa (Middle-East) region. By localizing manufacturing, the companies intend to support the UAE’s strategic push for autonomous transport and industrial self-reliance.
The agreement outlines a phased approach to introducing the Chaparral aircraft to the region. Under the terms of the deal, the joint venture will oversee flight operations, manufacturing, and aftermarket services, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
The companies have set a clear timeline for deployment:
Ahmed AlMazrui, Co-founder and CEO of Barq Group, emphasized the scale of the commitment in a statement regarding the deal:
“This $200 million investment is more than a manufacturing agreement; it is a commitment to building a self-sustaining aerospace ecosystem in the UAE. The massive demand we are seeing from logistics providers across MENA makes it clear that local production is the only way to scale effectively.”
The project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster and the national “Make it in the Emirates” strategy, which prioritizes the development of local industrial capabilities.
The Chaparral is designed specifically for middle-mile logistics, the transport of goods between distribution centers or to remote locations, bypassing the need for traditional airports or ground infrastructure. Elroy Air describes the aircraft as a “lift + cruise” hybrid-electric VTOL system.
According to technical data released by Elroy Air, the Chaparral features: A critical feature for the MENA region is the aircraft’s independence from electric charging infrastructure. Because the turbine generator charges the batteries during flight, the Chaparral does not require ground-based charging stations, enabling operations in remote deserts, offshore platforms, or mountainous terrain.
Dr. Andrew Clare, CEO of Elroy Air, highlighted the regional suitability of the aircraft:
“Demand for the Chaparral in the MENA region has been immense… Abu Dhabi is the ideal strategic hub for our first international manufacturing footprint.”
The “middle mile” is historically the most inefficient segment of the supply chain in the MENA region due to challenging geography and sparse infrastructure. Traditional cargo aircraft require runways that do not exist at many remote industrial sites, while ground transport is often slowed by indirect routes through deserts or archipelagos.
By deploying a VTOL system that requires zero airport infrastructure, this joint venture directly targets these inefficiencies. Furthermore, the hybrid powertrain distinguishes the Chaparral from purely electric competitors, which may struggle in regions lacking robust electrical grids at every delivery point. This move also positions Barq Group and Elroy Air to compete with other emerging players in the region, such as Dronamics, which has also secured agreements in the UAE.
Barq Group is the Abu Dhabi-based smart mobility arm of the larger conglomerate, distinct from other entities sharing the name in the region. Since launching its mobility division in April 2023, Barq has focused on eco-friendly transport solutions, previously signing agreements for ground-based electric delivery vehicles. This JV marks a significant expansion into aerial logistics.
Elroy Air, headquartered in South San Francisco, was founded in 2016. The company reports a commercial order backlog exceeding $3 billion, representing over 1,000 aircraft, with interest from major global customers including FedEx and Bristow Group.
What is the value of the joint venture? When will the aircraft begin flying in the UAE? Does the Chaparral require charging stations?
Barq Group and Elroy Air Announce $200 Million Joint Venture to Manufacture Autonomous Cargo-Aircraft in Abu Dhabi
Establishing a Regional Aerospace Hub
The Chaparral: Specifications and Capabilities
Key Technical Specifications
AirPro News Analysis
Company Backgrounds and Market Position
Frequently Asked Questions
The agreement represents a $200 million investment to build a manufacturing facility and establish operations in Abu Dhabi.
Flight operations using U.S.-built aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2027, with locally manufactured aircraft entering service in 2028.
No. The aircraft uses a hybrid-electric powertrain where a turbine generator charges the batteries in-flight, eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure.Sources
Photo Credit: Elroy Air
UAV & Drones
China’s Tianma-1000 Heavy-Lift Cargo Drone Completes Maiden Flight
China’s Tianma-1000 heavy-lift cargo drone completed its maiden flight, featuring 1,000 kg payload and STOL capability for remote logistics.
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, China successfully conducted the maiden flight of the “Tianma-1000” unmanned transport aircraft. According to reporting by CGTN, the aircraft was developed by Xi’an ASN Technology Group Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the state-owned defense contractor China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco). The flight test, conducted at an airport in Shaanxi Province, marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to expand its “low-altitude economy.”
The Tianma-1000 is designed to serve as a multi-role platform, integrating logistics transport, emergency rescue capabilities, and supply drop functions. State media reports indicate that the successful flight verified the aircraft’s aerodynamic design and control systems, clearing the way for further development in complex terrain operations.
Data regarding the Tianma-1000 highlights its positioning as a heavy-lift solution intended to bridge the gap between small delivery drones and traditional manned cargo planes. According to technical specifications released in conjunction with the flight, the aircraft features a payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms (1 metric ton) and a maximum range of 1,800 kilometers.
A defining feature of the Tianma-1000 is its Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability. Unlike systems requiring standard airport infrastructure, this aircraft is engineered to operate from unpaved surfaces such as grass or compacted dirt. Technical reports state that the aircraft requires a runway length of less than 200 meters to take off or land. This capability is specifically aimed at facilitating operations in remote areas, including high-altitude plateaus and mountainous regions where long concrete runways are unavailable.
To support rapid logistics, the aircraft incorporates an intelligent loading system. Developer data suggests that the AI-assisted mechanism allows for the loading or unloading of its full 1-ton payload in approximately five minutes. Furthermore, the fuselage utilizes a modular “quick-swap” design, enabling operators to switch between standard logistics transport and airdrop modes depending on mission requirements.
The development of the Tianma-1000 underscores the growing intersection between military and civilian aerospace technology in China. The developer, Xi’an ASN Technology Group, is recognized as a dominant player in the domestic UAV market and is the largest drone production base in the country. Its parent company, Norinco, is a major state-owned defense contractor traditionally known for land systems.
According to industry analysis referenced in reports surrounding the Launch, the Tianma-1000 is part of a broader national push to develop a “low-altitude economy”, a sector that Beijing estimates could be valued at 2 trillion yuan by 2030. The aircraft joins a competitive field of domestic heavy-lift drones, including the TP1000 and AT200, all vying for market share in the “middle-mile” logistics sector.
The Case for STOL over VTOL While many Western competitors in the autonomous cargo sector, such as Elroy Air or Sabrewing, have prioritized Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capabilities to eliminate runway requirements entirely, the Tianma-1000 represents a different engineering philosophy. By opting for a Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) configuration, Chinese engineers appear to be prioritizing payload efficiency and range over vertical versatility.
VTOL systems require heavy lifting rotors and complex propulsion systems that often consume significant fuel and reduce overall cargo capacity. In contrast, the Tianma-1000’s fixed-wing design with STOL capabilities allows it to carry a substantial 1-ton payload over 1,800 kilometers while maintaining a simpler mechanical profile. For operations in China’s western regions, where flat strips of land (200 meters) are generally available even in remote areas, this trade-off offers a pragmatic, cost-effective solution for middle-mile logistics.
The Tianma-1000 enters a global market populated by several emerging heavy-lift autonomous aircraft. Its specifications place it in direct competition with international platforms, though with distinct operational profiles.
The Tianma-1000’s service ceiling of 8,000 meters also distinguishes it, suggesting a specific design focus on high-altitude operations suitable for the Tibetan Plateau and other mountainous frontiers.
China’s Tianma-1000 Heavy-Lift Cargo Drones Completes Maiden-Flight
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) Performance
Operational Efficiency
Strategic Context and Developer Background
AirPro News Analysis
Global Comparison
Sources
Photo Credit: CGTN
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