Ravn X Aircraft Rolls Out for Test Flights
After several years of inactivity, the Ravn X rolled out of its hangar at Long Beach Airport, marking the beginning of its autonomous taxi tests. Designed for launching small payloads into space, this significant step brings fresh attention from local aviation enthusiasts.
Specifications
Measuring 80 feet in length with a 60-foot wingspan, the Ravn X is a substantial autonomous aircraft. It is equipped with two afterburning turbofan engines, enabling it to achieve high subsonic flight at altitudes up to 60,000 feet.
Head on with the Ravn X, showing its impressive size. (Image Credit: Matthew Dawson)
At its maximum speed, the Ravn X is designed to release a rocket-powered second stage capable of boosting a 100-kilogram payload into orbit. This design fills a crucial gap in responsive launch capabilities, offering shorter preparation times compared to existing vehicles such as Falcon 9 or Vulcan Centaur.
Development Highlights
The Ravn X diverges from traditional air-launch methods, as it accelerates the rocket through the atmosphere rather than merely dropping it. Aevum was awarded a contract by the U.S. Air Force in 2019 to provide a launch system for its ASLON-45 mission, which includes several cubesats. Despite initial delays, the recent autonomous taxi tests indicate that development has continued, culminating in this public debut.
Aevum Ravn X, showing off a distinctive light design. (Image Credit: Matthew Dawson)
Observations and Speculations
It remains unclear if the displayed airframe, registered as N567RX, is the same one unveiled by Aevum in 2020. Observers note that it could still be a mockup, given that its landing gear seems fixed for ground use only.
No official statements have been made regarding the sudden visibility of the Ravn X after years of development. The aviation community eagerly awaits updates from Aevum or other involved stakeholders.
For further insights, The Aviationist will provide updates as new information emerges. Special thanks to Matthew Dawson for sharing his images of the Ravn X’s rollout.
