
DARPA X-65 Experimental Drone Reaches Wing Installation Milestone, Active Flow Control Technology Targets First Flight in 2026
Aurora Flight Sciences has announced that the X-65 experimental drone, the centerpiece of DARPA's CRANE program, has completed wing installation. The X-65 uses Active Flow Control (AFC) technology—replacing conventional control surfaces with pressurized airflow—and features a 30-foot wingspan and a gross weight of approximately 7,000 pounds. Despite multiple delays and cost overruns, the program is now targeting a first flight in 2026.
Source: The War Zone









