Aircraft Shows Off eSTOL and Maneuvering Capabilities

Electra recently showed off its Ultra Short demonstrator in front of prospective U.S. military buyers. The flights focused on the aircraft’s dual-use potential for logistics operations in challenging environments, particularly where traditional airstrips may be unavailable or compromised.

The demonstrations were held at Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico and Felker Army Airfield at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, utilizing the field’s grass strips.

The Ultra Short prototype is a piloted, blown-lift, hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. It requires one-third of the fuel used by helicopters on similar missions, allowing for deployment in remote areas with minimal infrastructure.

“AFWERX is committed to supporting the accelerated development of the dual-use Ultra Short technology. This aircraft’s efficient, quiet, and sustainable operations align with military objectives for contested and expeditionary logistics,” commented Jacob Wilson, the AFWERX Agility Prime acting branch chief. "Its hybrid-electric propulsion system provides extended range and endurance, making it suitable for Agile Combat Employment missions in austere locations.”

One of its main features is its ability to operate from small and minimally prepared areas. This capability was illustrated during the flight demos, which included takeoffs and landings from grass fields. Electra Chief Test Pilot Cody Allee also performed 150-foot radius turns to demonstrate the aircraft's low-altitude and low-speed maneuverability.

Another notable aspect of the demonstrations was the aircraft’s mobile power generation. During pre-flight, equipment and sound systems were powered directly by the Ultra Short, which offers 600 kW of continuous power and more than 1 MW for shorter periods. This capability makes it valuable for various military missions, including tactical insertions and medical evacuations.

"These flight demonstrations mark a significant milestone for Electra as we show the capabilities of the technology in the real-world” stated Electra VP and General Manager JP Stewart. “We're excited to collaborate with our government partners to deliver a new level of capability and operational energy efficiency that aligns with the future of defense logistics and mobility."

Electra will be working to expand the Ultra Short’s flight envelope through further testing. This is part of the company’s effort to develop its nine-passenger production aircraft under a STRATFI and AFWERX contract.

FMI: www.electra.aero