Aircraft
Natilus’ Freighter Concept Awarded U.S. Defense Funding
Optionally-piloted blended-wing-body freighter to make first flight in 2028
Kona blended wing body graphic over coastline
383 © Natilus

The U.S. Air Force has awarded blended-wing-body aircraft developer Natilus a $3.5 million to advance its optionally piloted ‘Kona’ freighter aircraft. As the San Diego-based startup works towards its full-scale prototype’s first flight in 2028, the funding will also support Kona’s targeted entry into commercial service by the end of the decade.  

Announced on October 21, the contract award from the Department of the Air Force and the Operational Energy – Innovation Directorate is intended to accelerate the optionally-piloted aircraft towards what Natilus described as “full-scale flight testing and an operationally relevant U.S. Joint Force demonstration.” 

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