Hermeus rolls out Quarterhorse Mk 1, its first uncrewed test aircraft

Hermeus/Quarterhorse

Hermeus rolled out Quarterhorse Mk 1, a subsonic uncrewed jet powered by a GE J85, the first of three test aircraft meant to lead to hypersonic flight. It was to fly at Edwards Air Force Base later in 2024 to practise high-speed take-off and landing; the supersonic Mk 2 was planned for 2025.

• Achieved rapid development: requirements set September 2023, Mk 1 unveiled approximately 200 days later
• GE J85 engine powers the subsonic Mk 1 designed for high-speed takeoff and landing demonstrations
• Mk 2 will use F100 engine with Hermeus-built precooling modifications for speeds exceeding normal supersonic capability
• Mk 3 will incorporate full Chimera II propulsion system, planned to exceed Mach 3.3, faster than SR-71