Hydroplane, a startup based in California, has recently secured funding from the US Army to further develop its hydrogen fuel cell powerplant for electric propulsion in Army aerial vehicles. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant will be utilized to outline the capabilities and performance of the hydrogen propulsion system specifically tailored for Army use, with a focus on conducting a prototype demonstration. Dr. Anita Sengupta, the CEO of Hydroplane, emphasized the agility and innovative approach that a small business like theirs can offer, enabling rapid advancement of technology from research to production. The company has a track record of securing contracts from the US Navy, US Air Force, and the California Energy Commission to develop hydrogen fuel cell systems for aircraft and ground power units. Additionally, Hydroplane is actively working on a 200-kW modular hydrogen fuel cell powerplant targeted at the general aviation and advanced air mobility sectors, aiming to replace traditional combustion engines in various aircraft categories. Overall, Hydroplane's efforts in advancing hydrogen-electric propulsion systems reflect a positive outlook on the future of sustainable aviation technology.