Northrop Grumman and DARPA introduce the XRQ-73 SHEPARD, a hybrid stealth UAV designed for new U.S. Department of Defense missions.

Northrop Grumman Corporation recently unveiled the XRQ-73 SHEPARD, a hybrid stealth UAV developed for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Weighing approximately 567 kg, this UAV combines hybrid electric architecture with advanced technologies. Designed in collaboration with Scaled Composites, it aims to reduce the risks of integrating emerging technologies for long-endurance missions. Its maiden flight is scheduled for late 2024, marking a major milestone for the US Department of Defense.

Design and construction of the XRQ-73 SHEPARD

Northrop Grumman Corporation, in collaboration with its subsidiary Scaled Composites, has unveiled the design and construction of the Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD). This unmanned drone, officially designated XRQ-73 by DARPA, is a major technological advance in the field of military aviation. The XRQ-73 weighs around 567 kilograms and uses an innovative hybrid electric architecture, combined with cutting-edge technological components. This configuration is designed to optimise performance and fuel efficiency, while minimising the thermal and noise footprints that are crucial for stealth missions.

Objectives of DARPA’s X-prime programme

DARPA’s X-prime programme aims to rapidly develop a new mission aircraft for the US Department of Defence. Steve Komadina, SHEPARD programme manager at DARPA, explains that the aim is to integrate emerging technologies and reduce integration risks at system level. The XRQ-73 is designed to demonstrate the potential benefits of a specific propulsion architecture and power class. The aim is to rapidly deliver long-endurance aircraft capable of meeting emerging operational requirements.

Collaboration and contribution of partners

The SHEPARD project is led by Northrop Grumman’s Aeronautical Systems Sector in Redondo Beach, California. Several other suppliers, as well as the Scaled Composites subsidiary, are contributing to the project. The DARPA team also includes members from the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the Office of Naval Research (ONR). This inter-agency collaboration will leverage cutting-edge skills and technologies to achieve the programme’s ambitious goals.

Hybrid electric technology

The hybrid electric architecture of the XRQ-73 represents a significant advance on traditional propulsion systems. This system combines an electric motor with a secondary power source, typically an internal combustion engine or fuel cell, to optimise fuel efficiency and performance. The use of advanced components reduces fuel consumption, increases flight range and reduces thermal and acoustic signatures. These characteristics are essential for missions requiring high stealth and long endurance.

Potential consequences for defence

The development of the XRQ-73 SHEPARD could transform the operational capabilities of the US armed forces. By reducing the risks of technological integration, the programme will enable new-generation aircraft to be deployed more rapidly. These UAVs, with their long range and improved stealth, can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance and attack missions without endangering human pilots. In addition, the reduction in fuel consumption and thermal and acoustic signatures improves operational efficiency and reduces operational costs in the long term.

Future prospects

The success of the SHEPARD programme could pave the way for new applications of hybrid electric architecture in military aviation. The lessons learned from this project could be applied to other weapons systems and vehicles, improving the overall capabilities of armed forces. The technology could also be adapted for civilian use, particularly in commercial aviation and freight transport, where energy efficiency and emissions reduction are growing priorities.

The XRQ-73 SHEPARD, the result of collaboration between Northrop Grumman and DARPA, represents a major advance in the field of military UAVs. By integrating a hybrid electric architecture and advanced technologies, this UAV promises to transform military operations by offering increased stealth, extended range and superior fuel efficiency. The results of this programme could have a significant impact on the future of military and civil aviation.

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