Boeing Sells Defense Drone Business to E-VTOL Startup Archer

Archer Aviation, an eVTOL startup, has made a surprise move by acquiring three aerospace subsidiaries from Boeing. The deal includes Wisk Aero, Insitu, and SkyGrid, with financial terms not disclosed.

The acquisition gives Archer access to Insitu's profitable defense drone business, generating over $200 million in annual revenue, as well as its expertise in military operations.

Archer plans to integrate the acquired businesses into its own eVTOL development efforts, leveraging Boeing's stake in the company and their technology-sharing collaboration.

The deal marks a significant shift for Archer, which had previously focused on commercial electric flight. The acquisition is seen as an opportunity for the company to accelerate its eVTOL plans and establish itself as a major player in the aerospace industry.