Two California aerospace companies are joining forces to develop a new autonomous aircraft that can serve both military and commercial missions. Costa Mesa-based Anduril Industries and San Jose air taxi maker Archer Aviation have spent the past two years creating the hybrid-electric, self-flying rotorcraft. The defense version, called Thunder, was officially unveiled Monday at the Farnborough International Airshow outside London. Designed for battlefield operations, the aircraft can carry missiles or rockets, patrol airspace, transport cargo and operate with minimal human involvement. The companies say the technology is also being adapted for civilian use, with a commercial version expected to perform cargo transport and other aviation services. Archer plans to reveal the first customers for the commercial model later this week. The partnership reflects growing demand for autonomous aircraft that can be used across multiple industries while highlighting California’s role as a leader in next-generation aerospace and defense technology development.
