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DARPA's SPRINT X-Plane program targets breakthroughs in military VTOL aircraft

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DARPA's SPRINT X-Plane program targets breakthroughs in military VTOL aircraft
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The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is spearheading an initiative aimed at revolutionizing vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft for the US Armed Forces. The SPRINT X-Plane program seeks to develop a High Speed VTOL (HSVTOL) aircraft that operates independently of runways, with a goal of achieving speeds over 400 knots. This project aims to fill operational gaps for the US Army and Air Force by providing aircraft capable of rapid deployment, resilience in combat, and versatility in missions.

Current VTOL models like the V-22 Osprey and F-35 Lightning II often prioritize either hovering or forward-flight performance. In contrast, the SPRINT X-Plane is designed to balance these capabilities while exceeding current speed limitations. The Department of Defense’s initiative supports advancements in aerospace technology to create aircraft that meet stringent military requirements.

DARPA has outlined specific performance metrics for defense contractors vying for the HSVTOL program award. These include runway independence, efficient transitions between vertical and horizontal flight, compact design for easier logistics, robust powerplants for extended range, reduced maintenance needs, and low acoustic signatures to minimize detection.

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Bell Textron's Stop/Fold Jet Transition capability has shown promise in wind tunnel tests. Bell Textron and Aurora Flight Sciences are currently advancing their designs after being awarded contracts for Phase 1B of development. Aurora’s design features a blended-wing body fuselage with jet power and electric lift fans, while Bell Textron focuses on a tiltrotor configuration with jet-powered engines.

"Aurora and Boeing bring relevant expertise in blended-wing-body platforms," said Larry Wirsing, vice president of aircraft development at Aurora. "The DARPA SPRINT program is an exciting opportunity to continue our history of advancing technology demonstrator programs that enable new capabilities for the U.S. military."

As DARPA progresses through its stages of development from conceptual designs to prototypes, it remains committed to achieving runway independence. Contractors face technical challenges in developing this advanced VTOL aircraft which demands innovations beyond current materials science capabilities.

Autonomous flight capabilities are also sought after by DARPA as they aim to enhance safety and efficiency in contested airspace while reducing pilot workload during missions.

Defense One noted the strategic importance of diverse approaches taken by contractors selected by DARPA underlining historical evidence showing competitive development models promote innovation essential for realizing ambitious goals set forth within SPRINT X-Plane Program.

Organizations Included in this History
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