Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein aims to launch air taxis by the 2028 Olympics as the company expands into defense.
Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein stated that the company is focused on certifying its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for use by the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. While the technology faces regulatory hurdles, the administration announced a pilot program across 26 states to accelerate deployment. In a move to diversify its portfolio, Archer Aviation partnered with Anduril Industries to develop Thunder, an autonomous attack rotorcraft. Designed to fly alongside crewed helicopters like the Apache, Thunder utilizes a hybrid-electric powertrain and tilt rotors to operate in various environments. The aircraft can carry a wide range of payloads, including precision munitions and electronic warfare tools. Goldstein noted that defense applications represent a significant market, as the aircraft requires less complex certification than commercial models. By teaming multiple Thunder units with a single crewed platform, the military can triple available munitions while reducing costs and pilot risk. Anduril Industries expects the first flight of Thunder in 2027.