AIRO unveils full-scale next-generation dual-use aircraft platform at XPONENTIAL 2026

AIRO Group Holdings, Inc., a next-generation aerospace and defence company, together with its brand Jaunt Air Mobility, today announced the public unveiling of its full-scale autonomous aircraft at AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2026 – a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform designed for defence and government missions, with dual-use capability for cargo logistics and remote operations.

Over 1,000 miles of range and up to 16 hours of endurance–extending ISR reach in environments where traditional aviation cannot operate

The aircraft represents a major milestone in the development of AIRO's heavy-lift, hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft, designed to address critical needs across commercial logistics, defence, and government operations.

"This unveiling marks an important step as we move from concept to a tangible platform," said Joe Burns, AIRO CEO. "The aircraft is designed to deliver reliable, scalable capability in environments where traditional aviation solutions are limited or unavailable."

The program is currently advancing through the detailed design and engineering phase, with the team reporting strong progress across key subsystems. Development activities are tracking ahead of expectations, with the program currently running below projected R&D cost targets, reflecting disciplined execution and efficient integration across partners.

Based on current development progress, AIRO expects the aircraft to enter commercialisation and operational deployment beginning in 2027, consistent with previously communicated program timelines.

"We are advancing the aircraft through design and development, enabled by an accelerated approach that integrates digital engineering and early system validation," said Martin Peryea, AIRO SVP & GM Electric Air Mobility. "We remain on track for first flight by the end of this year."

The unveiling at XPONENTIAL provides customers, partners, and industry stakeholders with the first opportunity to experience the aircraft configuration, offering a tangible view of its size, capabilities, and operational concept.

"This unveiling highlights the aircraft's core capabilities–from its slowed rotor architecture to its combination of vertical lift and efficient forward flight and the flexibility enabled through modular payload configurations," said Dr. Simon Briceno, AIRO VP Business Strategy. "These are the elements that we expect to drive real value across both government and commercial applications."

Based on continued design optimisation and mission analysis, the platform is now projected to achieve over 1,000 miles of range and 16 hours of endurance in the ISR configuration, significantly expanding its operational reach for long-endurance missions.

A Platform for Defence and Dual-Use Mission Needs

The aircraft is designed around a common architecture optimised for defence and government missions, where range, endurance, payload capacity, and operational flexibility are critical.

The platform includes two mission configurations:

– JC250 (Cargo): Optimised for middle-mile logistics, remote resupply, and humanitarian operations

– JX250 (ISR): Configured for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions for defence and government customers

The platform is engineered for operations in austere and infrastructure-limited environments.

Designed for Real-World Operations

The aircraft highlights several defining features of the platform, including:

– Detachable cargo pod system for rapid loading and unloading

– Hybrid-electric propulsion architecture for extended range and operational flexibility

– Vertical takeoff and landing capability enabling access to remote or constrained areas

– Modular design supporting mission adaptability across defence and commercial applications