AFWERX has awarded ZeroAvia with a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant for a feasibility study around integrating hydrogen propulsion into Cessna Caravan aircraft along with advanced aircraft automation technology.

Awards from AFWERX are provided for research questions with key implications for the most significant issues within the Department of the Air Force (DAF).

ZeroAvia will explore how to create a 8,000 lb autonomous aircraft that uses hydrogen-electric propulsion, which can reduce detectability through reduced engine noise and low thermal signature. Hydrogen fuel cells improve the duration, range, and turnaround time of various Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). It can be recognised as an aviation fuel as it is produced at point of refuelling through electricity and water.  

ZA600 is a 600kW hydrogen-electric powertrain that ZeroAvia is advancing towards certification for, this powertrain uses fuel cells to convert hydrogen fuel into electricity which then powers electric motors that include civil regulators. This 600kW electric propulsion system earned the company a FAA G-1 issue paper, a large milestone.

Reliable Robots will support this project and help ZeroAvia explore relevant autonomous flight systems within the study.

 Val Miftakhov, Founder & CEO, ZeroAvia, commented, “It is a hugely important signal to see the U.S. Air Force exploring the potential application of hydrogen fuel cells and electric propulsion in heavy unmanned aircraft.  This feasibility study will provide greater insight into how hydrogen fuel cell propulsion can reduce detectability and costs of air operations, enhance capability of autonomous air vehicles and derisk fuel supply in forward operating environments.”