New XRQ-73 Drone Flies With Hybrid Fuel in California

The new XRQ-73 drone uses both electric and jet fuel, a new approach for military aircraft. This is part of a program to make drones quieter and fly longer.
By Newsroom | Technology, Military |

CALIFORNIA – A new experimental drone, designated XRQ-73, has successfully completed its initial flight in California. This unmanned craft, a product of Northrop Grumman's Scaled Composites under a DARPA program, is testing a novel propulsion system.

The XRQ-73 combines electric and jet fuel power sources, aiming for enhanced endurance and reduced acoustic signature during flight. A visual cue from its recent appearance shows a camera mounted near its nose. The specifics of its development timeline and potential deployment remain unarticulated by the military.

Next-Generation Propulsion Unveiled

The XRQ-73 is part of a broader initiative, the 'Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration' or SHEPARD program. This effort signifies a move towards integrating hybrid-electric systems into future tactical aerial platforms.

General Atomics has also been a participant in developing similar technologies, notably with their 'GHOST' drone concept. While the XRQ-73's immediate future is unclear, the broader implications of its hybrid-electric design suggest a push for quieter, more persistent aerial operations.

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The 'GHOST' Program and Its Predecessors

The GHOST drone, developed by General Atomics, is also centered on hybrid-electric propulsion, utilizing ducted fans. This system is intended to equip future drones with both intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and strike capabilities.

Reports indicate the GHOST program builds upon earlier concepts like the Gambit drone family and the MQ-Next concept, which was pitched as a successor to the MQ-9 Reaper. The Air Force has previously expressed concerns regarding the MQ-9's efficacy in high-end conflict scenarios, suggesting a need for more advanced capabilities.

The military's engagement with General Atomics for the GHOST program, as noted in contracting notices from late May 2025, underscores the perceived value of these hybrid-electric designs.

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  • The program's name, GHOST, stands for General Atomics Hybrid-electric Operational Surveillance and Strike Technology.

  • This technology aims for extended "persistence in the battle area" or long-range flight.

  • Unlike some current ISR platforms, the GHOST appears slated for kinetic strike missions.

The development of such systems reflects a perceived demand for advanced unmanned aerial vehicles capable of operating in contested environments, offering a blend of stealth and sustained operational capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the XRQ-73 drone and where did it fly?
The XRQ-73 is a new experimental drone that successfully completed its first flight in California. It is part of a DARPA program by Northrop Grumman.
Q: What is special about the XRQ-73 drone's fuel?
The XRQ-73 uses a new system that combines electric power and jet fuel. This is meant to make it fly longer and be quieter.
Q: What is the goal of the XRQ-73 drone program?
The program, called SHEPARD, aims to test hybrid-electric systems for future military drones. The goal is to have drones that can fly for longer periods and are harder to detect.
Q: Are other companies working on similar drones?
Yes, General Atomics is also working on a drone called GHOST, which also uses hybrid-electric power for surveillance and attack missions. This shows a trend towards advanced drone technology.
Q: Why is the military interested in these new drones?
The military wants drones that can work better in dangerous situations and conflicts. Current drones like the MQ-9 Reaper may not be enough, so they need advanced capabilities like stealth and long flight times.