# Army Demonstrates 3D-Printed Hybrid Drone Engine

The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory (DEVCOM ARL) demonstrated a Group 3 VICTOR unmanned aircraft powered by a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine paired with a 400-volt motor-generator in a series-hybrid configuration. ARL says the research has transitioned to industry partners for maturation and integration; VICTOR is being refined, and the related PULSAR concept is intended for further experimentation with military partners. The work points to potential industry roles in developing and integrating propulsion and aircraft capabilities, but the signals identify no solicitation, contract value, procurement timeline, or point of contact.

- Companies with relevant propulsion, additive manufacturing, and unmanned aircraft capabilities may find opportunities in future maturation and integration work; the signals do not identify a current bid opportunity.
- The demonstrated configuration is intended to support longer-endurance, vertical-takeoff operations and reduced logistics requirements, indicating operational goals that may shape future capability development.
- Contractors can use the VICTOR demonstration and planned PULSAR experimentation to understand the Army’s technology direction, while recognizing that no specific procurement action or funding commitment is announced.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 02, 2026

### Government Entities
- Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory (DEVCOM ARL)
- U.S. Army (Army)
- U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM)

### Vendors
- Griffon Aerospace (Industry partner that worked with ARL to build an aircraft around the propulsion system)

### Key Quotes
> For warfighters, the program has transitioned research findings to industry partners for maturation and integration into capabilities that could enable mid-sized drones to operate beyond line of sight, extending the reach of ground commanders and reducing risk to Soldiers.
> — Chol-Bum “Mike” Kweon, Program Manager at DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory

### Sources
- [Army research leads to first 3D-printed heavy-fuel engine](https://www.army.mil/article-amp/296507/army_research_leads_to_first_3d_printed_heavy_fuel_engine) - Army.mil
- [Army Research Lab flies 3D printed heavy-fuel rotary engine in a hybrid drone | VoxelMatters - The heart of additive manufacturing](https://www.voxelmatters.com/army-research-lab-flies-3d-printed-heavy-fuel-rotary-engine-in-a-hybrid-drone/amp) - VoxelMatters