ZeroAvia has been selected by AFWERX for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to conduct a feasibility study focused on integrating hydrogen propulsion into Cessna Caravan aircraft alongside advanced aircraft automation technology. AFWERX awards aim to address research questions with specific implications for the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF).

ZeroAvia will analyze the potential for developing and delivering an 8,000 lb autonomous aircraft with hydrogen-electric propulsion for reduced engine noise and low thermal signature, thus significantly reducing detectability. Hydrogen fuel cells are a promising technology for improving the range, duration and turnaround time of a range of electric Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).

Hydrogen has additional advantages as an aviation fuel as it can be produced at point of refueling given ready supply of electricity and water, which simplifies fuel logistics—a critical consideration for any defense applications.

Reliable Robotics—the California-based specialists in remote operation of aircraft—will support ZeroAvia in exploring relevant autonomous flight systems as part of the study.

The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded. The study will explore the integration potential and operational impacts of strategically important technologies in the shape of autonomy and fuel cells.

ZeroAvia is advancing certification of a 600kW hydrogen-electric powertrain—ZA600, which uses fuel cells to convert hydrogen fuel into electricity to power electric motors—with civil regulators. The planned first airframe is the Cessna Caravan, manufactured by Textron. The company recently announced a significant regulatory milestone after receiving an FAA G-1 issue paper for its 600kW electric propulsion system.