Innovation takes flight every day in Hampton, and few stories capture that spirit better than Tidal Flight, a young startup turning coastal Virginia into a launchpad for next-generation aerospace.

Founded in 2023, Tidal Flight has been selected for a $1.25 million Direct to Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from AFWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Air Force. The award supports development of an “iron bird” prototype for Polaris, the company’s hybrid-electric amphibious aircraft designed to serve both commercial and defense applications.

For founders Jude Augustine, Pranav Krishnamurthy, and Mark Lau, Polaris represents more than a vehicle; it’s a vision for the future of coastal mobility. Designed to carry 9–12 passengers and operate seamlessly between land and water, the aircraft blends sustainability with mission versatility. Its hybrid-electric system signals new possibilities for regional air travel and logistics.

Tidal Flight’s achievement also represents something larger: the accelerating momentum of the Hampton Roads innovation ecosystem. A region defined by its shipyards and military bases is now fast emerging as a hub for dual-use technology, aerospace, and autonomy, supported by collaborative efforts from organizations like the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and Hampton’s own REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center.

AFWERX’s “Open Topic” SBIR/STTR program, which launched in 2018, has played a major role in transforming how Hampton Roads startups engage with the Department of the Air Force. By opening the door to nontraditional innovators, the program encourages technologies like Polaris to move swiftly from concept to capability, benefiting both national security and commercial markets.

For Tidal Flight, the selection marks a pivotal step forward. For Hampton Roads, it’s another clear sign that the region’s innovation story is powered by founders who see opportunity where sea meets sky.

At REaKTOR, we’re proud to see innovators like Tidal Flight take flight from right here in our community, proving once again that the future of aerospace and defense innovation has deep roots in coastal Virginia.

Note: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of War, or the U.S. government.