US to test high-Mach flight, high-speed weapon release by unmanned war planes

Hermeus won a $159 million Defense Innovation Unit contract modification for high-Mach flight testing.

The 2026-2027 tests will show uncrewed aircraft flying at high speed and releasing payloads in flight.

The program has support from the U.S. Air Force and Navy and could advance military use of the technology.

The results are expected to inform future acquisition and weapons planning.