Archer Aviation Accuses Joby of Chinese Supply Fraud, Targets Federal eVTOL Grants
Archer Aviation filed a countersuit accusing Joby Aviation of misclassifying Chinese aircraft materials and hiding Chinese government grants to secure U.S. federal eVTOL funding. It was filed the same day the Department of Transportation announced three eVTOL grant programs listing both companies, intensifying regulatory scrutiny as Archer pursues FAA certification.
1. Archer Aviation Files Countersuit
Archer filed a countersuit accusing Joby of misclassifying Chinese-origin aircraft components as consumer goods and concealing Chinese government financial support to win U.S. federal eVTOL development funds.
2. Overlapping Federal Grant Programs
The countersuit coincided with the Department of Transportation unveiling eight grant programs, including three specific to eVTOL development, all listing Archer and Joby as participants, raising regulatory scrutiny over foreign supply-chain allegations.
3. FAA Certification Push
Archer achieved full FAA acceptance of all means of compliance for its Midnight aircraft and is advancing toward type certification while competing with Joby’s planned early 2026 commercial operations.
4. Stock Market Reaction
Archer’s shares fell 13.3% over the past week as investors assess potential grant eligibility risks and the legal battle’s impact on regulatory approval timelines.