{
  "id": 9646167,
  "title": "X-planes: Are they needed in the new era of drones?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/x-planes-are-they-needed-in-the-new-era-of-drones-9646167",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-24T23:03:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC Technology",
    "slug": "bbc-technology",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9q92x359xdo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In the realm of aviation, the X-planes have long been a symbol of innovation and exploration. Despite the advent of drones, these experimental aircraft continue to hold significance. The latest addition to the X-plane family is the X-59, a uniquely designed aircraft aimed at reducing sonic booms. Unlike its predecessors, which were often limited by sonic booms, the X-59's elongated nose helps flatten supersonic booms into tolerable bumps, paving the way for supersonic flight over land.\n\nThe X-plane philosophy, as explained by NASA veteran Peter Coen, emphasizes minimizing goals and focusing on one primary task. This approach has led to groundbreaking designs, from Chuck Yeager's X-1, which broke the sound barrier in 1947, to the X-15, which reached 6.7 times the speed of sound in the 1960s. The X-59 continues this tradition, being assembled by Lockheed Martin for NASA, featuring components from various military jets.\n\nHowever, the rise of drones has raised questions about the necessity of X-planes. While drones are cheaper to develop, they may not always be the most cost-effective solution. Removing the pilot adds complexity and cost, particularly when flying over urban areas. Moreover, for tasks requiring human presence, such as carrying people or testing core systems, the X-plane remains essential.\n\nDespite the technological advancements, proponents argue that the human element remains crucial. Test pilots provide valuable feedback that computers and simulators cannot replicate. Additionally, there's a political dimension, with the UK's new technology demonstrator, borrowing engines from the Typhoon fighter, signaling the country's commitment to future air combat capabilities. Thus, while drones continue to evolve, the X-planes continue to play a vital role in aviation research and development.",
  "summary": "Where do America's X-plane projects fit in an era of cheap drones?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Science",
        "title": "X-planes: Are they needed in the new era of drones?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/x-planes-are-they-needed-in-the-new-era-of-drones",
        "published": "2026-09-24T23:03:53.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}