The U.S. Navy has awarded Electra a contract to begin exploring using ship-based eSTOL logistics aircraft in contested environments, to transport supplies and people.
Electra is developing a hybrid-electric, ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft to get in and out of small spaces quietly and safely, while flying fast enough to cover long distances. It combines the operational flexibility of a helicopter with the safety and economics of a fixed wing aircraft. Hybrid-electric power provides long ranges without the need for ground-based charging stations.
Filling a unique next-generation capability gap
The Navy knows they need to address next-generation aviation logistics challenges. The Pentagon also wants options for U.S. forces that can respond to new threats and challenges, while reducing carbon output from flight operations.
Electra’s eSTOL aircraft may be the solution to filling unique Navy capability gaps. Electra will work with Navy stakeholders to define specific contested logistics use cases and conduct a conceptual design study to evaluate how its plane can address those gaps.
“With our differentiated combination of hybrid-electric propulsion and a blown fixed wing, we can offer Pacific theater-relevant payloads and ranges, and the ability to operate from rough soccer field-sized spaces as well as many naval vessels and adjacent assets, all from day one,” says Ben Marchionna, Electra’s Director of Technology and Innovation.
“Beyond boilerplate tactical logistics use cases, we also see this as an enabler for expeditionary power generation, mesh networking, and an essential node for Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) employment,” added Marchionna. “These are all game-changers for force modernization initiatives within the Navy and Marine Corps.”
A plane that can takeoff and land in 1/10 the space required of a conventional aircraft, to access locations only a helicopter can, at a fraction of the energy required
The company’s eSTOL plane uses a special “blown lift” aerodynamic technique. It employs 8 electric motors to significantly increase wing lift. This multiplies lift so the plane can takeoff and land at just 35mph.
It only needs a 300ft X 100ft area to takeoff & land, and only produces 75 dBA at 300ft. So it’s very quiet, and can access places most aircraft can’t. It can carry up to 9 passengers, each with a 50 pound bag, and cover 500 miles (with 45 minute reserve).
Electra’s technology demonstrator aircraft is already conducting flight tests
Electra’s technology demonstrator aircraft took to the skies for the first time for an all-electric test flight on November 11, 2023. It was followed by a hybrid-electric flight November 19. The first flight lasted 23 minutes and reached 3,200 feet, flying approximately 30 miles. The tests were conducted at Manassas airport in Virginia.
Electra says their plane will deliver 2.5x the payload and 10X longer range, with 70% lower operating costs than vertical takeoff alternatives. With far less certification risk.
The Army and Air Force are also interested in Electra’s eSTOL aircraft.
And yes, it’s a fixed-wing. There’s no tilting of the wing or rotors for operation. So, it can be operated with a standard fixed wing pilot’s license.
Electra expects to start flight testing a full-scale prototype in 2026. They hope to bring the new plane to market by 2028, after achieving type certification under FAA’s Part 23 rules.
