Scaled Composites to Help Build Prototype of Skyworks’ VertiJet VTOL

Skyworks Global and Northrop Grumman’s Scaled Composites subsidiary have partnered to develop a prototype of a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, Avionics International reported Wednesday.

The companies expect the VertiJet demonstrator to fly at a speed of up to 400 miles per hour with a range of 1K nautical miles. Skyworks has promoted the technology for defense and civil use.

“An aircraft that can take off and land vertically, hover when needed, and cruise with the speed, range, and efficiency of a fixed-wing aircraft would be quite compelling,” said Don Woodbury, chief technology adviser at Skyworks. “But even more exciting from my perspective is the potential to provide this unique performance without the complexity or cost of today’s military and civil rotorcraft.”

The report said the construction of the VertiJet prototype could take approximately 18 months.