Slovakia Develops Hydrogen VTOL Aircraft in €64.8 Mn Green Mobility Project

Bratislava, 19 July (TASR) – A Slovak company is developing a prototype of one of the first hydrogen-powered aircraft with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities, in a project supported by the European Union as a major innovation in the future of green mobility. The H2 VTOL project, led by Tomark Proton, is expected to span six years with a total budget of €64.8 million, the company announced earlier this week. Unveiled in Bratislava, the project includes not only the development of the hydrogen VTOL aircraft, but also the creation and certification of lightweight, recyclable hydrogen tanks and valves for aviation and other transport sectors. „We began development last year. H2 VTOL has the potential not only to replace helicopters in an eco-friendly way but also redefine urban transport and logistics,” said Martin Sedlak, co-owner and director of Tomark Proton. He added that the project has already attracted significant investor interest. A broader hydrogen mobility ecosystem is also being established, covering green hydrogen production, storage, refuelling infrastructure, and integration with autonomous drones. The technology has sparked interest across Europe and the Middle East, with current cooperation underway with major industry players — including BMW, Neuman & Esser, HDF Energy, EVO, and Skeleton Technologies. „This is a major technological leap. In my opinion, it will revolutionize the field of hydrogen aviation,” said Juraj Sinay, professor at universities in Kosice and Ostrava, and adviser to the Slovak Economy Ministry on hydrogen technologies. He highlighted the growing global trend toward low-emission mobility solutions. Beyond its technological ambitions, the project is expected to have significant social impact — creating around 16 research positions and nearly 5,000 indirect jobs. Nine universities are set to participate, with plans to generate 20 patents, boost Slovakia’s energy security, and reduce its carbon footprint. mf/ko