Joby Aviation Partners with L3Harris to Develop Autonomous Military Aircraft

Joby Aviation announced Thursday a new partnership with L3Harris Technologies to build autonomous aircraft for defense customers. The collaboration targets the development of a gas-turbine hybrid vertical takeoff and landing system.

Most people know Joby as an air taxi developer, but the publicly traded company maintains deep Pentagon ties. Years of military research work are now producing tangible results.

The partners will explore creating a new aircraft category built around Joby's existing S4 platform. This version uses gas-turbine hybrid propulsion instead of pure electric power. Autonomous flight capability is a key requirement for military applications.

According to a recent publication, Joby typically focuses on all-electric powertrains for its S4 aircraft. However, the company tested a hydrogen-electric hybrid under a government contract last year. That prototype flew 521 miles, more than double the range of battery-powered versions.

L3Harris brings extensive defense contracting experience to the arrangement. The company produces military electronics, communications equipment, and sensor systems for U.S. forces.

Extended range matters for military missions where refueling options are limited. Hybrid propulsion solves battery limitations that restrict pure electric aircraft to shorter distances. Autonomous operation reduces crew requirements and enables new mission types.

The agreement represents another revenue path for Joby beyond commercial passenger service. Defense contracts often provide stable funding while commercial markets develop. Multiple air taxi companies are pursuing similar dual-track strategies.

Joby's military relationship stretches back several years through various research programs. This partnership with L3Harris could accelerate actual production of operational military aircraft rather than just experimental prototypes.