Electric aircraft developer Joby Aviation is purchasing Resonant Sciences to expand its military-focused operations and integrate new sensing and communications technology.

Joby Aviation has announced a $500 million agreement to acquire Resonant Sciences, a defense firm based in Dayton, Ohio. The deal, which is expected to close in early 2027, will see Resonant operate as Joby’s dedicated defense division. Joby plans to fund the acquisition using $450 million in cash and $50 million in equity.

Integrating Defense Capabilities

Founded in 2015, Resonant Sciences employs approximately 250 people and specializes in radio frequency, sensing, and mission systems. Its technology is designed to support secure communications, gather information, and provide low-observability features that make aircraft harder to detect. The firm’s products are currently qualified for use across more than 20 commercial and defense airframes. Joby intends to combine its existing propulsion and autonomy technology with Resonant’s systems to design and build stealth aircraft. Many of Resonant’s employees hold military clearances due to the classified nature of their work.

Strategic Shift Toward Military Contracts

The acquisition reflects a broader trend in the electric aviation industry, where companies are seeking new revenue streams as regulatory approval processes for urban air taxis remain protracted. Joby, which reported a net loss of $245.4 million in the second quarter of 2026, has maintained ties with the military since 2016. The company previously delivered its first aircraft to Edwards Air Force Base for testing in 2023. Joby’s commercial division will continue to focus on air taxis, with the first launches expected later this year. The move follows recent industry consolidation, including Boeing’s sale of three eVTOL subsidiaries to Archer Aviation and Archer’s collaboration with Anduril on a new aircraft.