Austin’s Skyways Secures $37M AFWERX Contract, Boosting Military and Commercial Drone Tech
Skyways Air Transportation lands a major U.S. Air Force deal, reinforcing Austin’s rise as a dual-use tech hub.
SPACE 🚀 & DEFENSE 🇺🇸FEATURED
Austin, TX — On June 9, 2025, Skyways Air Transportation Inc. announced a $37 million contract from the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX division to scale its V3 cargo drone prototype into full-rate production.
The Details:
Tech Specs: The V3, a hybrid fuel-electric vertical takeoff aircraft, carries 100 pounds over 1,000 miles or 20 hours, building on the V2’s 30-pound, 500-mile range used by oil and gas clients.
Funding Boost: Founded in 2017 by CEO Charles Acknin and CTO Chris Craighill, Skyways has raised $16 million, including a $15M Series A in 2021 from Capital Factory, Y Combinator, and Liquid 2 Ventures.
Milestones: The V2.6 flew 478 miles in light rain last month via Starlink, while V2 and V3 demos earlier this year showcased dual-flight capability.
Leadership Insight: Acknin said, “We’ve figured out a way to do it rapidly and at low cost… This approach is what helped secure this USAF contract.”
Why It Matters:
Skyways’ deal strengthens Austin’s dual-use tech ecosystem, supporting military logistics and commercial growth, fueled by Army Futures Command and the Endless Frontiers Institute.