DARPA SPRINT X-Plane Project: Bell Secures Phase 1B

6 months ago Editor

Bell Textron Inc. has advanced to Phase 1B of DARPA’s SPRINT X-Plane program, focusing on developing an experimental aircraft with high speed and runway independence. This marks a pivotal step in revolutionizing air mobility platforms.

Fort Worth, TX (May 28, 2024) – Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), has been selected for Phase 1B of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) X-Plane program. The SPRINT initiative aims to create an experimental aircraft that combines high speed with runway independence, enhancing the next generation of air mobility platforms. During Phase 1A, Bell completed a conceptual design review and will now advance to preliminary design efforts for the SPRINT X-plane.

“Bell is honored to be selected for the next phase of this revolutionary program and ready to execute preliminary design,” said Jason Hurst, executive vice president of Engineering at Bell. “We completed our initial risk reduction efforts with our sled test demonstration at Holloman Air Force Base, and we look forward to building on this success with our continued work with DARPA.”

As a subsidiary of Textron Inc., listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TXT, Bell Textron Inc. brings extensive expertise to the SPRINT X-Plane project. The program’s goal is to pioneer an experimental aircraft that transcends traditional limitations, offering unparalleled speed and runway independence. With Phase 1A’s conceptual design review successfully concluded, Bell is poised to undertake preliminary design efforts, further cementing its commitment to pushing the boundaries of aviation innovation.

The selection of Bell Textron Inc. for Phase 1B underscores DARPA’s confidence in the company’s capabilities to contribute to the advancement of next-gen air mobility platforms. By combining high speed with runway independence, the SPRINT X-Plane program aims to unlock new possibilities in aviation, heralding a future where travel is faster, more efficient, and more accessible than ever before.

In late 2023, Bell conducted risk reduction testing at Holloman Air Force Base, demonstrating technologies such as folding rotors, integrated propulsion, and advanced flight control systems. Leveraging its extensive experience in High-Speed Vertical Takeoff and Landing (HSVTOL) technology, Bell aims to inform the development of the SPRINT X-plane.

Bell’s HSVTOL technology integrates the hover capabilities of a helicopter with the speed, range, and survivability of jet aircraft, achieving speeds over 400 knots. With over 85 years of expertise in high-speed vertical lift technology, including pioneering projects like the X-14, X-22, XV-3, and XV-15, Bell continues to innovate in fast flight and vertical lift configurations for NASA, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Air Force.