US startup Electra has launched a defense division following successful flight tests of its ultra-short takeoff and landing (STOL) hybrid-electric aircraft with the US Air Force (USAF).
On December 3, 2025, Electra provided details behind its decision to introduce Electra Defense, citing “growing global market demand from militaries for long-range, runway-independent solutions”.
The new unit will focus on meeting defense mission needs as Electra continues development of the nine-seater EL9 aircraft.
Electra explained that the new business unit followed the successful completion of government directed test events with the US Air Force at the Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Future Flag 25-3 test event in September 2025.
According to Electra its EL2 prototype aircraft “executed an operational scenario with command and control of logistics assets, conducted a quiet ultra-short takeoff and landing, and powered up an MQ-9 Reaper UAV to demonstrate agile combat deployment capabilities”.
Electra said that militaries are looking to find ways to achieve distributed operations and alleviate demand on larger airlift assets like the C-17 and C-130.
“The EL9’s ability to access austere locations, carry 1,000 lbs. over 1,000 nautical miles, and generate 600 kW of expeditionary power represents next-generation capabilities for mobility and special operations forces,” a spokesperson for Electra said.
With its ability to take off and land in spaces as short as 150 feet, Electra argues that the EL9 can access helicopter-sized areas in austere or remote environments while maintaining the safety, cost, and long-range benefits of a fixed-wing aircraft.
“The military can no longer solely rely on trucks or helicopters to conduct logistics missions over long distances, and we need to preserve the efficiency of existing airlift assets. The multi-mission ultra-STOL EL9 is the sprinter van of the skies, enabling the military to execute agile combat employment to deliver people, power, and payloads at the last tactical leg,” said Donn Yates, Vice President and General Manager of Electra Defense.
In June 2025, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Electra and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works to accelerate commercialization of the EL9 and explore global opportunities for programs of record.
Electa said the EL9 could be deployed on the following missions:
- Last Tactical Mile Logistics
- Sustainment Support for Agile Combat Employment (ACE)
- Ship to Shore Transport
- CASEVAC/Personnel Recovery
- Expeditionary Power/Command & Control (C2)
- Quiet Infil/Exfil for Special Operations Forces (SOF) Missions
- Maritime Patrol & Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
