DARPA’s XRQ-73 SHEPARD hybrid-electric experimental aircraft takes off at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
DARPA, in collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory and Northrop Grumman, flew the XRQ-73, a hybrid-electric, unmanned experimental aircraft. The flight occurred at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. in April 2026 as part of DARPA’s Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) program.
This flight 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.
Source: Northrop Grumman
https://www.darpa.mil/news/2026/darpa-xrq-73-demonstrates-hybrid-electric-flight?utm_source=dvids&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=XRQ-73
| Date Taken: | 04.30.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 05.06.2026 16:34 |
| Photo ID: | 9666946 |
| VIRIN: | 260430-D-D0231-5385 |
| Resolution: | 2354x1594 |
| Size: | 774.27 KB |
| Location: | EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 1 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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