Home
Defense Systems
Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
XRQ-73 SHEPARD Hybrid Electric UAS

XRQ-73 SHEPARD Hybrid Electric UAS

Northrop Grumman XRQ-73 SHEPARD hybrid electric uncrewed aircraft on runway at Edwards Air Force Base.

Manufacturer: Northrop Grumman
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed ~200 km/h
Endurance 12+ hours (estimated)
Operational Range Mission dependent
Payload Capacity ISR focused

Defense Systems Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	XRQ-73 SHEPARD
Manufacturer	Northrop Grumman
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	ISR / Technology Demonstrator UAS
First Flight / Introduced	2026
Status	Experimental
Unit Cost	Not Disclosed

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	~200 km/h
Cruise Speed	~160 km/h
Operational Range	Mission dependent
Endurance	12+ hours
Service Ceiling	~25,000 ft
Rate of Climb	Not Disclosed

3. Dimensions

Length	Not Disclosed
Wingspan	Not Disclosed
Height	Not Disclosed
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	~570 kg class

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	ISR payloads only
Hardpoints	None
Weapons	None
Sensors	EO/IR ISR suite
Avionics	GPS, autonomous flight system

5. Propulsion

Engine Type	Fuel generator plus electric motors
Engine Power	Not Disclosed
Propeller Type	Electric driven propulsor

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Remote and autonomous
Data Link Range	Line of sight and satellite
Navigation	GPS and INS
Ground Control Station	Fixed or mobile

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	U.S. research agencies
Combat Proven	No
Notable Operations	Flight testing and evaluation

PROS

Lower acoustic and thermal signature
Improved fuel efficiency and endurance
Flexible power for sensors and avionics
Flying wing reduces drag and radar return
Valuable testbed for future hybrid designs

CONS

Prototype with limited disclosed metrics
Added complexity from hybrid architecture
Battery weight reduces payload margin
Not combat proven
Production cost and scalability unknown

The XRQ-73 SHEPARD is a U.S. experimental uncrewed aircraft built to prove how hybrid electric propulsion can improve endurance while lowering acoustic and thermal signatures. Developed as a flying wing, the aircraft focuses on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance where persistence and discretion are critical.

Manufacturer

Northrop Grumman, working with Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency under the Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion Aircraft Demonstration program.

Speed

Estimated cruise near 200 km per hour, consistent with Group 3 UAS performance.

Range

Designed for extended endurance missions exceeding 12 hours. Operational range depends on mission profile and power management.

- Advertisement -

Cost / Price

Research prototype. Unit cost not publicly disclosed.

The aircraft uses a series hybrid layout. A fuel engine acts as a generator that powers electric motors driving the propulsors. This setup allows efficient fuel use, flexible energy distribution, and quieter operation than conventional propulsion. The flying wing shape reduces drag and radar return while providing internal volume for batteries, generator, and sensors.

XRQ-73 is intended for ISR, communications relay, and technology validation. Flight tests examine how hybrid systems handle endurance pacing, thermal control, and signature reduction in real conditions. Data from this platform is expected to inform future U.S. uncrewed aircraft where survivability and efficiency are priorities.

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data.TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content.We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content.External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.