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X-65Photo byDefense Advanced Research Projects Agency

Manassas, Virginia - DARPA has initiated the third phase of the CRANE program, choosing Aurora Flight Sciences, based in Manassas, to build the X-65, a full-scale X-plane. This marks a significant shift from traditional flight control designs, as the X-65, officially designated in 2023, will primarily use active flow control (AFC) actuators instead of conventional movable, external control surfaces.

Key Points

• The use of active flow control is expected to boost aircraft performance by eliminating jointed surfaces that currently add weight and complexity. This advancement could expand design options for future military and commercial aircraft. By eliminating external moving parts, the X-65 aims to reduce weight and complexity while improving performance.
• The innovative design of the X-65 utilizes jets of air from a pressurized source to manipulate airflow over the aircraft's surface, with AFC effectors placed on various surfaces to control roll, pitch, and yaw.
• The aircraft will feature both traditional control surfaces, like flaps and rudders, and AFC effectors across all lifting surfaces. This dual system aims to minimize risk and maximize insights into control effectiveness.
• The unmanned X-65, weighing over 7,000 pounds with a 30-foot wingspan, will be capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 0.7, mirroring the characteristics of a military trainer aircraft.
• Aurora Flight Sciences has already begun the fabrication of the X-plane, with the rollout of the X-65 planned for early 2025 and its first flight scheduled for the summer of the same year.
• The funding contract for this phase includes a $41,421,422 modification, bringing the total contract value to $89,634,375. Work will be distributed across multiple locations in the United States, with an expected completion date in October 2025. The contract involves extensive research and development, with $15,786,711 allocated at the time of the award.