 |  | |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
| | |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
|
DARPA's XRQ-73 Demos Hybrid-Electric Flight May 8, 2026
April 30, 2026 - DARPA’s XRQ-73 SHEPARD hybrid-electric experimental aircraft takes off at Edwards Air Force Base, California. DARPA, in collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory and Northrop Grumman, flew the XRQ-73, a hybrid-electric, unmanned experimental aircraft. The flight is part of DARPA’s Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) program and is a step forward in demonstrating the military utility of hybrid-electric propulsion. Hybrid electric propulsion architectures will drive the development of revolutionary new aircraft designs by offering a combination of fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced operational flexibility. Image created by USA Patriotism! from DARPA courtesy photo via Northrop Grumman. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) | U.S. Department of War Americans | I Am An American! | We The People | America's Destiny | Give Thanks | Love and Pride of USA | National Will God and Country | One Nation Under God | America's Symbol | Old Glory | Hooray USA! | America, My Home! Our Valiant Troops | I Am The One | Answering The Call | Brave Young | Brave Blue | Our Heroes, America's Best Veterans | Citizens Like Us | Vietnam War Veterans | Spouses Serve Too Honoring The Fallen | Don't Weep For Me | Remember The Fallen | Tears For Your Fallen | Our Wounded |
|
