Anduril has unveiled Thunder, a hybrid-electric autonomous tiltrotor attack aircraft designed to fly alongside the AH-64 Apache, one of the world’s most widely used attack helicopters, as an armed-to-the-teeth autonomous wingman. Revealed at the Farnborough Airshow 2026, Thunder combines vertical takeoff and landing with high-speed, long-range flight, allowing it to self-deploy over long distances while operating close to the battlefield.

Designed to multiply the Apache’s combat power, Thunder features internal weapons bays and a nose payload bay capable of carrying Hellfire and JAGM missiles, rockets, launched effects such as the ALTIUS-600 drone, electronic warfare systems, counter-drone weapons, or cargo. By sending Thunder aircraft ahead of crewed helicopters, militaries can increase firepower, scout dangerous areas, and keep Apache crews farther from enemy air defenses and drone threats.

Powered by Anduril’s Lattice autonomy software, Thunder can fly low and fast, navigate in GPS-denied environments, avoid terrain, and operate individually or as part of an autonomous pack. Developed in partnership with Archer Aviation, the platform is also designed for future missions beyond attack aviation, including logistics, maritime patrol, and search and rescue, with its first flight planned for 2027.