Rand (a think tank) has stated the United States Air Force should be doing more to incorporate eVTOL aircraft into its fleet. The suggestion is that the Air Force could be taking advantage of the various companies developing eVTOL technology (which promises to make Sci-Fi movies a reality). eVTOL aircraft boasted another eventful year in 2023, bringing the Jetson-esque future of flying to work closer to reality.
Think tanks says eVTOL aircraft could be beneficial to Air Force
Rand points out that billions of dollars from industry have been poured into developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for future urban mobility. The think tank states that the Air Force could be taking advantage of this emerging industry to bolster its capabilities.
Photo: Archer
The motivation is not just going green (although the RAF has committed to becoming the world’s first net-zero air force by 2040). eVTOL aircraft could benefit the Air Force (although not transformatively). Rand states that the Air Force should explore small eVTOL aircraft and foster closer cooperation with companies developing autonomous eVTOL aircraft.
Rand notes that state-of-the-art eVOTL aircraft already developed can carry a 1,000 lb payload for a distance of 150 to 200 nautical miles—a range that can likely be increased.
While eVTOL aircraft might not be practical in forward operating bases, they could be used to
Why Rand Recommends The US Air Force Adjust Its eVTOL Strategy
