Hermeus has flight-tested its Quarterhorse Mk 1 remotely piloted drone designed to support the development of high-Mach and hypersonic aircraft.
The test, which took place at Edwards Air Force Base in California, focused on high-speed takeoff and landing, particularly demanding maneuvers due to the aircraft’s configuration optimized for high-speed flight.
The trial also assessed key aircraft components such as aerodynamics, stability, and command and control.
Moreover, it examined the drone’s propulsion, fuel systems, and hydraulics.
Additional evaluations covered avionics, flight software, telemetry, and flight termination systems.
“Industry partnerships continue to have an important role in the development and test of disruptive and innovative capabilities for our warfighters,” commented Major General Scott Cain, Commander of the US Air Force Test Center.
“The promise of routine hypersonic flight is an exciting capability for the joint team.”
Next Steps Toward Hypersonic Aircraft
Unveiled last year, the Quarterhorse Mk 1 is the first of a series of prototypes developed as part of Hermeus’ test program to advance hypersonic aircraft toward operational use.
The drone is powered by a GE J85 engine, the same found in Northrop Grumman’s F-5 supersonic fighter and the T-38 Talon jet trainer.
Data from the Mk 1 test campaign is being analyzed and applied to developing Quarterhorse Mk 2, the next prototype.
Currently in production at the company’s Atlanta facility, the Mk 2 will be roughly the size of an F-16 and is expected to make its first flight later this year.
