Overview
- DARPA’s XRQ-73, which flew at Edwards Air Force Base in April 2026, was publicly confirmed Wednesday with new images that reveal an updated airframe.
- The series hybrid system uses a fuel-burning generator to produce electricity for the motors, so the engine runs at its best speed while the motors provide thrust on demand.
- Program officials say the setup can save fuel, reduce emissions and noise, lower infrared and acoustic signatures, and power high-demand sensors or other payloads.
- Developed with the Air Force Research Laboratory and Northrop Grumman’s Scaled Composites, the X-designated testbed is a Group 3 drone of about 1,250 pounds built to gather flight data, with any follow-on funding or transition plans not disclosed.
- New photos show added vertical fins on the wings, a small extra intake on top, new blade antennas, and a nose fairing that appears to house a forward-looking camera for flight testing.