Archer and Anduril Unveil Dual-Use Electric Aircraft at Farnborough

By Priya Anand

Archer Aviation and Anduril Industries have unveiled a new hybrid vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft named Thunder, designed for both military and commercial applications. The announcement was made at the Farnborough Airshow on July 20, 2026.

The Thunder aircraft, a product of a strategic partnership formed in December 2024, combines Archer's expertise in electric VTOL development with Anduril's capabilities in AI and autonomy. The platform features a series hybrid-electric powertrain and a dual tiltrotor configuration, enabling vertical takeoff and efficient wingborne cruise.

Thunder is positioned as a Group 5 autonomous attack rotorcraft, equipped to carry up to 10 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, 16 launched effects, or 75 guided rockets. It incorporates Karem Aircraft’s tiltrotor technology and is outfitted with a comprehensive sensor suite, drawing design inspiration from the Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior.

Archer and Anduril have already conducted multiple test flights with surrogate aircraft, with the first actual flight of Thunder planned for 2027. The companies anticipate announcing their first commercial customers for the platform later this week.

This development represents a significant step in the evolution of electric aviation, as manufacturers look beyond urban air mobility to broader applications, including defense.