Air Force Selects JetZero for Blended Wing Body Prototype Development

The US Air Force has selected aerospace startup JetZero to build a prototype Blended-Wing Body (BWB) aircraft, which aims to test and demonstrate new technologies. The BWB design, departing from traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, is expected to reduce drag by 30% and provide additional lift, potentially leading to extended range, increased payload delivery efficiencies, and reduced fuel consumption. The project, led by the Air Force Operational Energy Office, has the potential to significantly reduce fuel demand and carbon emissions. The BWB concept is applicable to theater lift and air refueling, which collectively account for 60% of the Air Force's annual fuel consumption. The technology is also expected to have commercial applications, offering benefits to passenger and air freight companies by increasing interior space and decreasing operational fuel costs.