DARPA has announced that its LongShot uncrewed air-launched craft has received the designation X-68A. This declaration comes as the project advances toward flight trials, following a succession of technical achievements, the agency reported.
As per DARPA, the LongShot initiative, commercially guided by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, has concluded extensive wind tunnel assessments. Furthermore, it has successfully tested the craft’s parachute retrieval mechanism and its ordnance deployment system.
The project seeks to develop an uncrewed aerial vehicle capable of deployment from a larger carrier aircraft. This drone would operate in advance of manned systems, engaging adversaries using its integrated air-to-air ordnance. DARPA stated this concept is designed to extend aerial engagement range, thereby enabling manned aircraft to maintain a greater distance from disputed zones.
DARPA additionally declared that LongShot’s design aims for compatibility with multiple carrier systems. An operational version could potentially be integrated into fighter jets, bombers, or utilized as a palletized weapon deployed from transport planes.
Colonel John Casey, manager for DARPA’s LongShot project, remarked: “LongShot substantially mitigates engineering uncertainties and offers a practical avenue for defense branches to enhance aerial combat range and potency from uncrewed, air-deployed systems.”
He further stated: “Through the assistance of our collaborators, we have achieved crucial benchmarks vital for the combined aerial trial phase. This campaign is set to confirm the craft’s capabilities and establish the groundwork for streamlined subsequent evolution.”
A variety of U.S. governmental entities lend their backing to the project. These include the U.S. Air Force’s Arnold Engineering Development Complex, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, NASA, along with numerous U.S. Army research and evaluation bodies.
As ground and integration evaluations are presently in progress, the project is progressing towards an aerial trial phase, potentially anticipated by the close of 2026. The organization declared these trials will confirm the deployment of the X-68A from an F-15 and showcase the secure discharge of an internal sub-munition.