BETA TECHNOLOGIES IS WORKING WITH THE USAF TO DELIVER AN ELECTRIC FLEET


By bblouin
BETA Technologies Alia aircrew perform preflight checks on their aircraft Nov. 7 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The aircraft performed its first official test flight traveling to Tyndall AFB and back recharging and then flying again.

The power of electricity continues to evolve as it becomes an energy source for more and more vehicles previously relying on other methods. There are more electric cars and trucks available these days and it’s only natural that the technology is being applied to the miracle of fight. BETA Technologies is an aerospace industry leader helping make this innovative approach a reality. Since being founded by Kyle Clark in 2017, BETA Technologies in Vermont has grown to employ hundreds of employees who are now working to help fulfill the need for innovative, electric aircraft in the U.S. Air Force (USAF). Suggested read: Celebrate USO Day by Giving Back to Our Nation’s Military Community

Who Is BETA Technologies?

BETA Technologies is an aerospace manufacturer providing electronic solutions for aircraft. Specifically, BETA Technologies in Burlington, VT creates electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft as well as electric conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL) aircraft. From an innovation standpoint, BETA Technologies Inc. is developing the aircraft to assist with military operations, healthcare, and cargo transport. BETA’s eVTOL can take off and land without a runway, which is great for direct, small payloads. On the other hand, the eCTOL adheres to more conventional runway-dependent operations. Both use a proprietary electric pusher motor to operate. In addition to its growing fleet, BETA Technologies has established a network of chargers capable of charging lithium-ion batteries for its vehicles and other electronic vehicles. BETA continues to set the industry bar by creating new training techniques to ensure proper operation by Aviators. Related read: Pentagon AI Developments Advancing US Weapons Arsenal

ALIA Aircraft Are Reaching New Heights

BETA ALIA aircraft are built to reduce noise, produce a smaller carbon footprint, and create fewer maintenance issues. It accomplishes all this while providing constant torque and precision handling with less complicated controls than traditional helicopters. Inspired by nature, ALIA aircraft provide a cutting-edge design facilitating innovative transportation modes. Designed based on fundamental physics principles, the aircraft prioritize safety and efficiency. Featuring an aerodynamic form, lightweight structure, and advanced energy-dense batteries, the 50-foot wingspan allows BETA ALIA aircraft the ability to accommodate up to 5 passengers and a pilot. The ALIA CTOL is ideal for getting things from point A to point B in a way that optimizes range and payload. In contrast, the ALIA VTOL unlocks new point-to-point missions thanks to its vertical takeoff abilities. How the military decides to use any model from the ALIA Platform is yet to be completely seen. However, testing involving BETA Technologies at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia shows interest in assistance with casualty evacuation missions.

BETA Technologies Testing Electric Aircraft With the U.S. Air Force

From the 41st Rescue Squadron at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia to Duke Field in Florida, the USAF and BETA have been busy testing aircraft for casualty evacuation missions. This marks the first time such missions are using electric aircraft. And, it shows promise toward adopting a more electric fleet. Thus, the exercises are possible thanks to multiple contracts with BETA through the Air Force’s Agility Prime program. Search and rescue, evacuations, and general transport missions are just a few reasons the USAF is looking into electric aircraft. They are generally quieter and can provide needed discretion in hostile situations. Another notable difference is cost. In the scenario presented, C-130s are the aircraft of choice and would have cost well over $1,000 for fuel alone and three crewmembers. BETA’s ALIA was able to do it with only two crewmembers and for the cost of about five bucks. More experiments are underway, including the use of BETA Technologies aircraft for maintenance missions; however, it’s worth noting that the company installed a high-speed charger at Duke Field showing that some long-term commitment may already be in play for future use. Read next: Nikki Haley’s Husband (Michael Haley) Deploys to Africa


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