Northrop Grumman Advances Autonomous Flight with SHEPARD Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

On May 6, 2026, Northrop Grumman announced it has begun flight testing of the XRQ-73 SHEPARD uncrewed aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base in support of DARPA’s Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration program.

The XRQ-73 utilizes a hybrid-electric propulsion system to enhance fuel efficiency and operational flexibility while supporting mixed-fuel concepts.