DARPA Grants Bell X-Plane Status for Sprint Program Aircraft

After Bell Textron completed the critical design review of the DARPA Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) aircraft, work has begun on the flight demonstrator, now designated the X-76.

Bell was downselected for the second phase of the SPRINT program in July 2025, which entails detailed design, build, and ground testing. Phase 1A and B involved conceptual and preliminary design. After building the first aircraft, flight testing is slated for the third phase of the program.

SPRINT is funded by DARPA and the U.S. Special Operations Command and requires an aircraft capable of flying at 400 to 450 knots and hovering in austere environments with unprepared surfaces.

“Bell is honored to receive the X-76 designation and continue the spirit of American innovation, honoring the founding of the United States in 1776,” said Jason Hurst, Bell senior v-p of engineering. “This is an important milestone as the Bell and DARPA team advances to a historic first in aviation history and fulfills our mission of developing next-generation vertical-lift aircraft.”