Paris-based Hybrid Air Freighters has signed a letter of intent to order up to 12 Lockheed Martin Hybrid Airships, worth approximately US$500 million.

“We are keen to implement such an impressive innovation in the logistics market,” said Hubert de Contenson, chief executive officer of HAF. “The LMH-1 will open a new era for remote cargo delivery that is free from costly ground infrastructure and will provide a sustainable and affordable solution to remote cargo operations around the globe.”

Hybrid Enterprises, the exclusive reseller of Lockheed Martin’s Hybrid Airships, will work with HAF to finalize the purchase agreement.

“With a 21-tonne cargo payload and the ability to land on any surface, the LMH-1 Hybrid Airship is designed to revolutionize remote cargo delivery,” said Rob Binns, chief executive officer of Hybrid Enterprises. “We are honoured to have HAF as the latest customer of our game-changing aircraft.”

The LMH-1 is capable of transporting cargo loads and personnel in and out of remote locations using significantly less fuel than conventional aircraft. Its shape and air-cushion landing system mean that little or no fixed ground infrastructure is needed.

More than 20 years have been invested in the LMH-1’s development and testing, according to Lockheed Martin.