Heart Aerospace: A Swedish Dual-Use Innovator in Electric Aviation

Heart Aerospace AB is a Swedish aerospace developer that has generated international interest with its 30-seat hybrid-electric regional aircraft (ES-30). Founded in 2018 as a spin-off from Sweden’s government-funded ELISE research program[1][2], the company aimed to “electrify regional air travel” as a climate-friendly solution. Its ambitious timeline – first flight of a full-scale demonstrator in 2025[3] and ES-30 certification by 2029[4][5] – has attracted over $185 million in venture funding (Breakthrough Energy, EQT Ventures, United Airlines Ventures, etc.)[6][7]. Heart Aerospace’s story combines deep technology development (in aerospace, composites and batteries) with strategic implications for Europe: its emergence under EU R&D programs and national grants suggests a contribution to the domestic innovation base, but its recent decision to relocate headquarters to California in 2025[8][9] raises questions about European tech sovereignty and industrial retention. This analysis examines Heart Aerospace through the lens of European strategic autonomy, assessing how its technology, partnerships and trajectory align with EU and NATO defense and industrial objectives.