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Anduril and Archer Aviation unveil Thunder dual-use VTOL platform
Fox Business • • business
Key Points:
- Anduril and Archer Aviation have jointly developed a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platform designed for both commercial and defense applications, with the defense variant named Thunder unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow.
- The VTOL aircraft features a hybrid-electric powertrain and dual tiltrotors to enhance range, endurance, efficiency, and reduce acoustic signature for improved survivability during low-altitude operations.
- The platform is capable of carrying modular, heavy payloads, leveraging Archer's air taxi experience and aiming to deliver advanced performance and operational value for modern defense and commercial needs.
- Multiple test flights with full-scale surrogate aircraft have been completed, with Thunder's first flight scheduled for 2027; Archer plans to announce commercial partners for the civilian version soon.
