ZeroAvia and Marshall Aerospace have announced the start of a strategic collaboration to explore hydrogen-electric capability for future defence applications.

The collaboration seeks to combine ZeroAvia's flight-tested hydrogen-electric power and propulsion system technologies with Marshall's long-standing expertise in military aircraft modification, integration, certification, and complex fuel systems. Together, the two UK aerospace companies will explore how these capabilities can be combined in practical settings.

A range of applications will be jointly explored for hydrogen-electric technology in defence, drawing on the two companies' complementary capabilities to support solutions for customers.

"This collaboration brings together complementary UK aerospace expertise to turn the potential of hydrogen-electric propulsion into real military capability," said Christine Ourmières-Widener, Executive Chair of ZeroAvia. "Defence applications are already demanding greater endurance, lower thermal signatures and more operational flexibility, and we're focused on proving where this technology fits."

Bob Baxter, CEO of Marshall Aerospace, added: "We are excited to work with ZeroAvia to provide a clear and credible pathway for military operators to exploit the benefits of hydrogen-electric flight. With our deep experience in complex aircraft modification and certification, we are well positioned to help translate this transformative technology into operational capability for defence customers."

The companies emphasise that this is an early-stage effort focused on prototyping and evaluation. Further decisions on deployment and operational use will follow as the technology and its applications are tested and better understood.