Lockheed Martin (LMT) announced on Wednesday a new investment in REGENT, a pioneering electric seaplane manufacturer, to expedite defense applications.
In 2022, Lockheed Martin remained one of the leading US military manufacturers with approximately $66 billion in revenues.
To speed up the deployment of electric seaplanes for the military.
Lockheed Martin aims to modernize and streamline its processes in order to stay competitive in the future. The company is best recognized for producing some of the most advanced, lethal defense advancements, such as the F-35 Fighter Jet.
Nowadays, one of the most prominent developments is the transition to entirely electric technology, which provides greater power at lower running costs.
In January of last year, the business participated in Electra’s Series A fundraising through its venture arm, Lockheed Martin Ventures.
Electra is developing a hybrid electric eSTOL aircraft capable of transporting nine people, two pilots, and 50 pounds of baggage per person over a distance of more than 400 nautical miles. Possibly even more significantly, the aircraft can take off in as little as 300 feet.
Lockheed Martin’s venture business said on Wednesday that it had invested in electric seaplane manufacturer REGENT, indicating a stronger commitment to electric technology.
Lockheed Martin invests in REGENT, an electric seaplane manufacturer.
REGENT designs and produces all-electric seaplanes to facilitate quick, efficient, and emission-free travel.
The firm has sold over 400 sea gliders to clients throughout the world, with orders for their 12-passenger sea glider, Viceroy, exceeding $7.9 billion.
According to Lockheed Martin, the electric seaplanes will “accelerate the development of seagliders for defense operations.”
REGENT’s all-electric, emission-free seagliders combine the maximum speed of an airplane with the low operating costs of a boat, allowing them to transport passengers and cargo (3,500 lb payload) up to 180 miles at 180 miles per hour. The chief executive officer of REGENT, Billy Thalheimer, explains:
Electrek’s Opinion
Due to their capacity to take off and land fast and quietly while also being 30 decibels (dB) quieter than an airplane or helicopter, electric seaplanes for defense can be a terrific concept.
Lockheed Martin sees an opportunity to improve defense with entirely electric technology. We will keep you informed as we learn more about the partnership.