Lockheed, Electra Aero Sign MOU to Commercialize Ultra-Short Take-off-landing Aircraft

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and Electra.aero Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly explore the development and commercialization of Electra’s ultra-short takeoff and landing (Ultra-STOL) aircraft, the EL9.

The EL9 is designed to carry a 1,000-pound payload over 1,000 miles and can take off and land within 150 feet—even from unprepared surfaces. This capability enables potential applications in military and humanitarian missions, including last-mile logistics, emergency response, and mobile power generation. The aircraft is also being positioned as a low-cost, low-noise fixed-wing platform with vertical-like access in austere environments.

The agreement builds on a previous strategic cooperation. In 2022, Lockheed Martin Ventures participated in Electra’s Series A funding round, deepening the companies’ relationship in the evolving hybrid-electric aviation sector.

The EL9 is positioned to serve both defense and commercial customers seeking solutions for operations in remote or infrastructure-limited areas, with Lockheed and Electra evaluating future program opportunities with the U.S. Department of Defense and international clients.