DARPA Tests New Hybrid-Electric ISR Drone XRQ-73

• •DARPA's XRQ-73 drone successfully flew for the first time in April 2026.
• •The drone utilizes a hybrid-electric propulsion system for improved efficiency and stealth.
• •The XRQ-73 is part of DARPA's SHEPARD program and builds on previous drone development efforts.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) announced the first flight of the XRQ-73, a hybrid-electric reconnaissance drone, at Edwards Air Force Base in April 2026. Developed in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and the Air Force Research Laboratory, the XRQ-73 aims to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise for military operations. The drone features a unique design with winglets and is classified as a Group 3 unmanned aerial vehicle, capable of flying below 18,000 feet. The project is part of DARPA's SHEPARD program, which focuses on advancing hybrid-electric propulsion technologies. The XRQ-73 builds on previous work from the Great Horned Owl project, which sought to create ultra-stealthy ISR drones. While the drone's first flight was delayed from an expected 2024 timeline, its successful test marks a significant milestone in military drone technology. The program manager emphasized the potential for new mission capabilities stemming from this innovative architecture.