L3Harris and Joby Aviation Team Up for Hybrid VTOL Military Aircraft
L3Harris Technologies has joined forces with Joby Aviation to develop a next-generation VTOL aircraft featuring hybrid human-machine piloting. Designed for diverse low-altitude defense missions, the platform will use a gas turbine power source and be capable of both crewed and autonomous operations.
The partnership combines L3Harris’ strengths in sensors, communication systems, and autonomous technologies with Joby’s proven expertise in commercial airframe development. Based on Joby’s S4 platform, the aircraft will undergo initial testing this fall, with operational demonstrations planned for next year, according to CNBC.
Joby has collaborated with the US military for nearly eight years and is advancing toward FAA certification for its flagship electric air taxi, alongside expanded production efforts in California.
