Aerospace firm Electra has announced the formation of a new defense business unit aimed at enhancing military logistics with the introduction of hybrid-electric, ultra-short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft. The newly established Electra Defense will spearhead the development of the EL9, a nine-passenger aircraft designed to revolutionize how military units operate in challenging environments.
The EL9 boasts the impressive capability of taking off and landing in as little as 150 feet (45 meters) and can transport up to 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms) of cargo over a distance of 1,000 nautical miles (1,150 miles or 1,852 kilometers). Additionally, it is engineered to generate 600 kW of expeditionary power, providing essential support in remote operations. This aircraft is particularly tailored to give military teams access to austere environments and facilitate ship-to-shore operations where traditional airlift assets, such as the C-17 and C-130, fall short.
This initiative builds upon the successful testing of Electra’s EL2 prototype during the US Air Force’s Future Flag 25-3 event in September. During the exercise, the EL2 showcased its capabilities through various operational scenarios, including logistics asset management, quiet ultra-STOL takeoff and landing, and the ability to power an MQ-9 Reaper drone. This operational versatility highlights the aircraft’s potential for military application.
Electra’s efforts are supported by key partnerships, notably with Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, as well as ongoing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) projects with the US Army. These collaborations focus on advancing hybrid-electric propulsion technology and underline the dual-use capabilities being developed for both military and commercial applications.
With an eye on cost-effective production and sustainment, Electra is preparing to commence flight testing of the EL9 in 2027. The project has garnered considerable interest, with over 2,200 provisional commercial orders already placed, indicating a strong market demand.
The introduction of Electra’s ultra-STOL aircraft is part of a broader trend in defense aviation that emphasizes hybrid-electric and runway-independent platforms. This shift reflects a growing need for increased operational flexibility, reduced dependence on large airfields, and the capacity to support distributed operations.
The United States Navy has also been investigating similar hybrid-electric capabilities, focusing on ship-to-shore connectors for special operations forces that allow for quiet and rapid maritime insertions. Meanwhile, the US Marine Corps is investing in advanced technologies exemplified by the V-247 Vigilant tiltrotor demonstrator, which combines vertical lift with long-range fixed-wing capabilities to provide access to remote areas without the need for runways. In the UK, efforts are underway to develop an “Agile Air Mobility” demonstrator inspired by Future Vertical Lift concepts, further illustrating the global push towards innovative aviation solutions in defense operations.
