Hydroplane secures Phase 2 award for hydrogen-electric propulsion work

The contract advances quieter, more efficient systems for helicopters and cargo drones as the U.S. Army explores alternatives to conventional fuel.

Hydroplane has secured a Phase 2 Small Business Innovation Research contract from the U.S. Army to further develop its hydrogen fuel cell electric propulsion system for helicopters and cargo drones.

The award builds on earlier work under the xTech 8 programme and a completed Phase 1 contract, moving the technology closer to operational use across Army aviation and unmanned cargo platforms.

Phase 2 activity centres on scaling and integrating the propulsion system for vertical lift aircraft. The electric drivetrain improves efficiency while reducing dependence on conventional fuel logistics, supporting more resilient operations.

Lower acoustic and thermal signatures also improve survivability in contested environments by enhancing stealth characteristics.

“Hydroplane is honored to continue supporting the U.S. Army in advancing next-generation propulsion technologies,” says Dr. Anita Sengupta, Founder and CEO at Hydroplane. “This Phase 2 award highlights how small business innovation can drive rapid, cost-effective deployment of cutting-edge solutions that directly enhance mission capability and operational success.”

The hydrogen-electric platform is positioned as a pathway toward more sustainable and adaptable propulsion systems aligned with evolving defence needs.