Anduril and Archer Aviation unveil Thunder autonomous attack rotorcraft at Farnborough Airshow

Published Jul 20, 02:01 PM UTC

Anduril, in partnership with Archer Aviation, unveiled the Thunder autonomous attack rotorcraft at the 2026 Farnborough Airshow. The Group 5 vertical take-off and landing aircraft features a hybrid-electric powertrain and tilt rotors, designed to operate alongside current and next-generation crewed attack helicopters like the Apache and Cheyenne II. Thunder uses Anduril's Lattice for Mission Autonomy software for autonomous formation flight and separation management, eliminating the need for direct pilot control. Its modular payload bays can carry precision munitions, electronic warfare payloads, rockets, and counter-drone munitions, with configurable loads including up to 10 air-to-ground missiles or 76 70mm rockets. Missions include fire support, ISR, maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and contested logistics. The aircraft is transportable in a standard shipping container. Anduril targets a first flight in 2027; no price has been announced.