Key facts
- Joby Aviation is acquiring defense technology company Resonant Sciences for approximately $500 million.
- The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2027.
- Resonant Sciences will operate as Joby's dedicated defense business.
- Resonant Sciences has $100 million in trailing 12-month revenue and access to classified U.S. government programs.
- The deal will be funded by approximately $450 million in cash and $50 million in stock.
Joby Aviation has agreed to acquire Resonant Sciences for approximately $500 million in cash and stock, a move aimed at deepening its presence in the defense sector. The deal, expected to close in the first half of 2027, will integrate Resonant Sciences' radio frequency and sensor systems expertise into Joby's operations.
Resonant Sciences, based in Ohio, will become Joby's dedicated defense business, led by its current CEO, J. Micah North. This division will absorb Joby's existing defense projects, including the development of turbine-electric and hydrogen-electric aircraft, and autonomy technology. This strategic acquisition provides Joby with a revenue-generating business, as Resonant Sciences has reported $100 million in trailing 12-month revenue and access to classified U.S. government programs.
This acquisition follows Joby's prior move to bolster its revenue streams by acquiring Blade Air Mobility's helicopter rideshare business for about $125 million last year. The company, known for its electric urban air taxi ambitions, aims to use the new defense division to focus on certifying, manufacturing, and launching its commercial electric air taxi.