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DARPA's LongShot Program Eyes First Flight Test in 2026

February 17, 2026
2 min read
Sponsored by: Jumpseat Solutions
Key Takeaways
  • General Atomics' LongShot program targets first flight test by end of 2026.
  • The program aims to develop an unmanned aircraft system launched from bombers or fighters.
  • DARPA views LongShot as useful for both the Air Force and Navy.
  • Flight tests will demonstrate the X-68A's capability to launch from an F-15.
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Strategic Implications

The LongShot program may indicate a shift towards unmanned, air-launched platforms for increased air combat reach and effectiveness. The successful development of the X-68A could suggest a viable path for the military services to enhance their capabilities, which may benefit General Atomics and its partners in future defense contracts.

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What Happened

General Atomics Advances Unmanned Aircraft System Development

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced that General Atomics’ LongShot program is aiming for its first flight test as early as the end of 2026. The program, which involves an unmanned aircraft system dropped from a bomber or fighter that can launch missiles of its own, has completed a series of milestone tests and trials. The X-68A aircraft is set to demonstrate its capability to be launched from an F-15, with the goal of increasing air combat reach and effectiveness. The LongShot program was first reported by Breaking Defense.

Source

Companies Mentioned
General Atomics Lockheed Martin Northrop Grumman DARPA
Topics
Unmanned Aircraft Air Combat Defense Technology Military Aviation DARPA
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Home › Categories › DEFENSE & SECURITY

DARPA's LongShot Program Eyes First Flight Test in 2026

February 17, 2026
2 min read
Sponsored by: Jumpseat Solutions
Key Takeaways
  • General Atomics' LongShot program targets first flight test by end of 2026.
  • The program aims to develop an unmanned aircraft system launched from bombers or fighters.
  • DARPA views LongShot as useful for both the Air Force and Navy.
  • Flight tests will demonstrate the X-68A's capability to launch from an F-15.
Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.
Upgrade
Strategic Implications

The LongShot program may indicate a shift towards unmanned, air-launched platforms for increased air combat reach and effectiveness. The successful development of the X-68A could suggest a viable path for the military services to enhance their capabilities, which may benefit General Atomics and its partners in future defense contracts.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.
Upgrade

What Happened

General Atomics Advances Unmanned Aircraft System Development

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced that General Atomics’ LongShot program is aiming for its first flight test as early as the end of 2026. The program, which involves an unmanned aircraft system dropped from a bomber or fighter that can launch missiles of its own, has completed a series of milestone tests and trials. The X-68A aircraft is set to demonstrate its capability to be launched from an F-15, with the goal of increasing air combat reach and effectiveness. The LongShot program was first reported by Breaking Defense.

Source

Companies Mentioned
General Atomics Lockheed Martin Northrop Grumman DARPA
Topics
Unmanned Aircraft Air Combat Defense Technology Military Aviation DARPA
Related Stories
DEFENSE & SECURITY
Bell's X-76 Demonstrator Advances in DARPA's SPRINT Program
High-Speed Vertical Lift Aircraft Moves to Build Phase
Mar 10, 2026 · 2 min read
DEFENSE & SECURITY
Air Force Unveils Prototype Drone Wingmen, Uncertainty Remains for Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program
US Air Force Moves Forward with Unmanned Systems Amid Global Competition
Dec 30, 2025 · 2 min read
DEFENSE & SECURITY
Northrop Unveils Project Talon Autonomous Combat Drone
New Uncrewed Aircraft Aims To Lower Price Point And Speed Development
Dec 4, 2025 · 3 min read
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