Aurora Flight Sciences has revealed the design for an X-plane that aims to change air transport in disputed or conflict-ridden locations. The project is part of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ( DARPA ) SPRINT program, and focuses on creating an aircraft capable of operating without the need for prepared runways, using advanced fan technology integrated into the main wings.
Aurora Flight Sciences’ X-Plane
This system, known as Fan-in-wing (FIW) , integrates lift fans directly into the aircraft’s wings, enabling vertical takeoffs and landings . Unlike other vertical takeoff aircraft, Aurora’s design maintains high payload capacity and aerodynamic efficiency.
The uncrewed demonstrator of this experimental aircraft will have a wingspan of 45 feet and be able to carry up to 1,000 pounds of cargo. Additionally, its estimated top speed will be 450 knots ( KTAS ), positioning it as one of the fastest military transport vehicles in development. According to Aurora Flight, the success of this technology could be scaled to larger, heavier aircraft, which could compete in payload capacity and range with today’s fixed-wing transport aircraft.
The SPRINT program seeks to offer a tactical advantage: the ability to conduct air operations without relying on traditional runway infrastructure. This is particularly valuable to the U.S. military, because it will enable missions in conflict-ridden or uncontrolled airspace. According to Mike Caimona, CEO of Aurora, this technology will help keep warfighters safe and extend military capabilities to new combat scenarios.
Aurora Flight Sciences recently completed relevant testing, including ground effect evaluation, which demonstrated the viability of wing-integrated fans for takeoff and landing maneuvers. The next phases of the program include wind tunnel testing, planned for late 2024 and early 2025, as well as flight testing in 2027.
Backed by Boeing and advanced technology from DARPA , Aurora Flight Sciences is positioned at the forefront of military security airlift innovation, aiming to create a new generation of medium- and heavy-lift aircraft that offer speed and operational independence in complex scenarios.
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Source and photo: Aurora Flight Sciences
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