Anduril and Archer Exploring New Options for Archer’s Midnight eVTOL Aircraft

Anduril and Archer are expanding their existing partnership and working with support from Skyports Drone Services and AtkinsRéalis using Archer’s Midnight eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) aircraft to extend opportunities in civil and defense applications, including cargo uses, in the UK. The partners will work on beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations and enabling low emissions among other initiatives.

Each partner brings essential expertise to the initiatives on the Archer Midnight. Anduril will lead systems integration by incorporating software-defined mission autonomy and command and control systems. Archer will provide and adapt the Midnight platform for dual-use applications.

AtkinsRéalis will offer expertise incorporating novel aviation technologies in a safe and efficient manner. And Skyports Drone Services will add operational experience with BVLOS projects.

Dr. Rich Drake, managing director of Anduril UK said, “The UK has clear ambitions both for innovation and growth, as well as to continue its leadership in advanced air mobility. This partnership brings together Archer’s leading eVTOL technology, Skyports’ infrastructure expertise and AtkinsRéalis’ safety systems in order to support future flight projects, accelerating VTOL and BVLOS developments. It also unlocks opportunities in defence and civil domains, including rapid, low-emission urban transport and surveillance capabilities for defence applications. Introducing Archer to the UK, alongside experienced local partners, marks a step forward in delivering integrated air mobility.”

Verity Richardson, head of business development, UK, at Archer said, “This team marks the next phase of our partnership with Anduril. There’s an incredible amount of opportunity here in the UK and worldwide to deploy dual-use advanced aircraft and we look forward to making it a reality.” The group will also work on Archer and Anduril’s plans for hybrid-propulsion VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing) aircraft.

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