At the Farnborough Airshow, BETA Technologies revealed a militarized unmanned variant of its A250 electric aircraft, equipped with a hybrid-electric powertrain designed to meet demanding defense requirements. The MV250 integrates propulsion systems from GE Aerospace and autonomy technology from Sikorsky.
The collaboration aims to deploy the MV250 for military exercises by 2024, with production targeting 2028, according to company materials. BETA CEO Kyle Clark emphasized the aircraft’s design philosophy: lightweight construction, low drag, and high propulsive efficiency enable extended range, speed, and payload capacity.
The hybrid-electric system, based on GE’s CT7 turbine engine (militarized as T700), offers approximately eightfold range improvement over all-electric alternatives, addressing critical military mission demands. Amy Gowder of GE Aerospace highlighted that the focus was on practicality, balancing simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Sikorsky’s MATRIX autonomy stack, previously used in unmanned Black Hawk helicopters, will enhance the MV250’s operational capabilities for soldiers. Rich Benton, Sikorsky’s VP, stated the partnership delivers “new mission-capable tools” for military users.
BETA is prioritizing sales to U.S. military branches—the Army, Air Force, and Marines—while also engaging international markets. Clark noted the aircraft’s potential for logistics, surveillance, and strike operations, with a range of 1,300 nautical miles and a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds at a projected cost under $10 million.
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