ZeroAvia has been chosen by AFWERX, the US Air Force's innovation arm, to conduct a feasibility study on the defence applications of an autonomous hydrogen-powered Cessna Caravan. This initiative aims to capitalize on hydrogen's advantageous characteristics such as high energy density, reduced noise, and low thermal signature. Through a Small Business Innovation Research grant, ZeroAvia will focus on integrating hydrogen propulsion into the Cessna Caravan along with advanced aircraft automation technology. Reliable Robotics will join ZeroAvia in developing flight systems for the 8,000lbs aircraft, potentially making it the first remotely-operated hydrogen-powered aircraft in the world. ZeroAvia's selection of the Textron-manufactured Caravan builds on their previous work with the airframe, as it will be retrofitted with the ZA600 600kW hydrogen-electric powertrain. This powertrain is in the process of certification by civil regulators and is expected to be operational in 2026 via a supplemental type certificate. The environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel, including reduced engine noise and low thermal signature, are crucial for military missions, enhancing the aircraft's stealth capabilities. The ability to produce hydrogen on-site simplifies fuel logistics, making it a strategic choice for defence applications. The study does not have a set timeline yet, but it aims to explore the potential integration of autonomy and fuel cells, potentially leading to more hydrogen-powered defence aircraft in the future.