Design Work and Concepts to Be Reviewed In Phase 1A

Bell Textron has joined the running for DARPAs Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) X-Plane program.

The SPRINT program aims to design, build, and fly an experimental aircraft to demonstrate "enabling technologies and integrated concepts necessary for a transformational combination of aircraft speed and runway independence for the next generation of air mobility platforms." A lot of text for a highly capable aircraft, one less finicky about runway surface and preparation with sufficient vertical takeoff performance to integrate into urban environments. The first phase, 1A, will see Bell work on a concept to be submitted for formal design review. No actual fabrication will be required in this phase.

“Bell is honored to be selected for SPRINT and thrilled to support another X-plane, which will bring unprecedented speed to vertical lift aircraft,” said Jason Hurst, executive vice president, Engineering, Bell. “In our rich 85-year history, Bell has produced memorable X-planes, such as the Bell X-1 and XV-15, and expanded our VTOL aircraft capabilities. This contract award is a testament to Bell's ability to build on past successful high-speed aircraft programs while investing in new research to validate HSVTOL technology.”

FMI: www.bellflight.com