Flying cars will be on the agenda when the U.S. Air Force hosts a five-day virtual conference beginning April 27th. While what the Air Force has in mind won't jibe with visions of those aerodynamic contraptions seen in The Jetsons, hopes are that the conference will accentuate the military potential of airborne vehicles and examine offers from contractors to help ensure the friendly skies stay that way.
New EVTOL Craft To Replace V22 Osprey
The vision to be outlined at the conference is the potential to create various classes of airborne, Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (EVTOL) craft. The Air Force has in mind very small vehicles that can carry up to two occupants, mid-sized carriers to ferry up to eight personnel and larger eVTOL for hauling heavier payloads.
The conference is part of the Agility Prime program, one that's been heavily supported by Air Force acquisition head Will Roper for nearly a year. He's hoping to get government departments like the Department of Defense on board with the program slated to replace the V-22 Osprey, a vehicle that's part-airplane part-helicopter which been in service since 1995.
50 Vendors Already Interested
Roper hasn't had to convince contractors about the amenities of the project. So far, 50 vendors that create EVTOL craft have expressed interest and will make their presence known at the conference in response to a call for proposals back in February. Pending further approval of the project, the company that gets the nod will be responsible for building the craft.
“In the case of EVTOL, we see numerous companies that are pushing really cool technology that has the chance to really change the world, but their challenge is getting certification and safety,” said Roper adding that the successful bidder could test prototypes for the airforce without any FAA red tape.
New Craft Could Have 100-Mile Range
Roper sees these vehicles involved in carrying soldiers and equipment to battle zones as well as engaging in rescue operations, a feat that made the Osprey a valuable Air Force craft. It's anticipated that this futuristic EVTOL craft will at least have a 100-mile range and perform at speeds greater than 100 mph while staying in the air for more than an hour.
Sources: Business Insider, Breaking Defence, Global Security