Hydroplane has received a Phase 2 Small Business Innovation Research contract from the U.S. Army to develop its hydrogen fuel cell electric propulsion system for helicopters and cargo drones.
The award follows Hydroplane’s selection as a winner in the U.S. Army xTech 8 program and completion of its Phase 1 SBIR contract. Phase 2 work will center on scaling and integrating the technology for use in vertical lift platforms, including Army aviation and unmanned cargo systems.
The propulsion system uses an electric drivetrain that provides higher efficiency compared to conventional systems. It reduces dependence on traditional fuel logistics, lowers noise levels, and decreases thermal detectability, which can improve stealth and mission effectiveness for military operations.
Dr. Anita Sengupta, Hydroplane founder and CEO, stated that the Phase 2 award shows how small business innovation can support rapid deployment of solutions to enhance mission capabilities.