Hermeus Quarterhorse UAV Breaks the Sound Barrier in Record Time
Roughly the size of an F-16, the Hermeus Quarterhorse Mk 2.1 unmanned supersonic aircraft achieved supersonic flight earlier this year, reaching a top speed of Mach 1.21. Focused on developing high-speed flight and ultimately producing a hypersonic airliner, Hermeus utilizes rapid prototyping to expand its capabilities. The Quarterhorse Mk 2.1 made its first supersonic flight less than three months after its first flight. To speed development, it uses several off-the-shelf components, including the Pratt & Whitney F100 engine and landing gear from an F-16.
Hermeus’ next aircraft, the Quarterhorse Mk 2.2 and 2.3, are currently under development, and the company recently announced the Ramjet-X, a low-cost, expendable ramjet-powered vehicle designed to be launched in flight from the Quarterhorse. On September 15, 2026, Hermeus also announced an agreement to manufacture the F100 engine under license.
Topics Related To: FUTURE OF FLIGHT
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