Joby Aviation and L3Harris Technologies are collaborating on an optionally manned vertical-takeoff-and-landing aircraft. Why it matters: The previously undisclosed project will undergo real-world testing shortly.

Joby's years of R&D with the DoD may be paying off. The company has signed an agreement with defense contractor L3Harris to develop a gas-turbine hybrid VTOL that can fly autonomously — for defense applications.

The partners will examine the potential of a turbine-electric hybrid vertical take-off and landing rotorcraft oriented toward low-altitude military missions.