SAN CLEMENTE, CA, Aug 14, 2025 – Swift Engineering has been selected as a supplier for the Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) X-plane program.
Bell Textron Inc. serves as the prime contractor for the program, managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Phase 2 focuses on design, construction, ground testing and certifying on an X-plane demonstrator.
Swift will handle the design and manufacturing services of a composites-based fuselage for the vehicle. The materials used are lightweight, strong, and precise, and are produced in a Nadcap Composites-accredited facility. Swift’s technicians are experienced, with a focus on hand lay-up laminates, cored structures, and complex assemblies.
“We are very pleased to be chosen to participant as a project team member on this exceptional program,” said Hamed Khalkhali, president of Swift Engineering. “This innovative new generation of high-speed vertical take-off and landing (HSVTOL) aircraft will contribute significant capabilities for our national defense and other critical operations.”
The program aims to enable these aircraft to cruise at speeds between 400 and 450 knots at operational altitudes and to hover in challenging environments from unprepared surfaces. During Phases 1A and 1B, Bell completed the conceptual and preliminary designs for the SPRINT X-plane. Phase 2 includes design and build culminating in flight test during Phase 3.
Source: Swift Engineering
About Swift Engineering
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in San Clemente, CA, Swift Engineering is an engineering firm specializing in the design, development, and production of advanced vehicles and systems for aerospace, defense, maritime, industrial, and commercial sectors. A Hiro Matsushita company, Swift employs about 500 people and generates an estimated $163M in annual revenue. Its capabilities include autonomous systems, robotics, uncrewed aerial systems, spacecraft components, and advanced composite manufacturing, with more than 500 vehicles and integrated systems delivered to clients worldwide. The company provides end-to-end engineering, manufacturing, and product development services, from concept to market, including R&D, build-to-print contract manufacturing, and custom precision manufacturing. Products range from unmanned tactical systems and maritime data collection platforms to robotics and 24/7 persistent monitoring solutions. Leveraging in-house capabilities for rapid prototyping, testing, and deployment, Swift supports both government and commercial customers in delivering complex, high-performance systems on time and to specification.