• Scaled Composites flew DARPA XRQ-73 SHEPARD hybrid-electric experimental aircraft in April 2026 at Edwards Air Force Base, marking a flight demonstration of hybrid-electric propulsion.
• Program targets maturation of hybrid-electric propulsion architectures integrated with mission-focused autonomy for a flying-wing Group 3 UAV.
• Effort, conducted with DARPA and Northrop Grumman, aims to support next-generation aircraft development with higher fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and greater operational flexibility.

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