TechCrunch Startup News Archer Aviation doubles down on defense aircraft with fresh $300M
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Feb 12, 2025 Nikhil Gohl, chief commercial officer at Archer Aviation, shares insights on the company’s pivot towards military applications in response to rising geopolitical tensions. He discusses their collaboration with Anduril on a hybrid VTOL aircraft, emphasizing its advantages for defense. The conversation also highlights Archer's impressive $300 million capital raise, totalling over $1 billion, and how this funding will shape their future projects, including midnight eVTOLs, amidst looming uncertainties in operating costs.
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Archer's Strategic Shift to Defense
- Archer Aviation is shifting its focus to defense applications for its eVTOL aircraft.
- This strategic move is driven by increasing geopolitical tensions and a new administration's focus on defense.
Quiet Advantage of eVTOLs in Defense
- eVTOLs are well-suited for defense due to their quiet operation, unlike traditional helicopters.
- The distributed propulsion system and wing-borne lift in forward flight contribute to the reduced noise.
Continued Air Taxi Plans
- Despite the defense focus, Archer still plans to launch commercial air taxi services in 2025, starting in the UAE.
- Expansion to other cities and countries, including the U.S., South Korea, and India, is planned for 2026.