CRG Defense is proud to be part of the flight of the XRQ-73, a hybrid-electric, unmanned experimental aircraft. This flight occurred at Edwards Air Force Base, California in April 2026 as part of DARPA’s Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) program.
Excerpt from the May 6, 2026, DARPA news release:
“This flight is a step forward in demonstrating the military utility of hybrid-electric propulsion. Hybrid electric propulsion architectures will drive the development of revolutionary new aircraft designs by offering a combination of fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced operational flexibility.”