This student built a 790 kmph drone in his university dorm, setting a world record

A jet-powered drone developed by a university student has reportedly reached 790 kmph (491 mph), setting a claimed world speed record for small jet-powered unmanned aircraft. Named Reaper, the aircraft was built by Georgia Institute of Technology aerospace engineering student Tomas Salvo, who said he constructed the project in his college dormitory.

Salvo announced the achievement in a social media post, saying he had built three Reaper models and that all three reached the reported top speed. Each aircraft can carry a payload weighing 1.2 kg (2.6 lb) and sustain speeds of up to 790 kmph for approximately four minutes on a full tank, according to the student.

He described the aircraft as a reliable and repeatable system, adding that further testing and minor design improvements could push its top speed beyond 800 kmph (500 mph).


Also Read: His grandfather died of pancreatic cancer: This Hyderabad startup founder is using AI to develop a personalised cancer vaccines

Reaper drone can climb to 2,000 metres in under 20 seconds

The aircraft can be launched using either a rail-based system or a truck, according to Salvo. It can reach an altitude of around 2,000 metres (6,600 feet) in less than 20 seconds and cover approximately 50 km (31 miles) while travelling at full speed.

A video shared online shows Salvo and two others preparing one of the drones for launch in an open field. The aircraft's engine can be heard powering up before the team gives it the final thrust needed for take-off.

Salvo described the three Reaper models as the world's fastest small jet-powered drones. However, the record claim and the performance figures have been presented by the student, and independent verification was not included in the available information.

3D-printed titanium nozzle helps improve drone design

Reaper features a 3D-printed titanium nozzle that replaces the engine's standard nozzle. The modification allows the engine to be positioned further forward, helping improve the aircraft's centre of gravity without adding extra weight to its front section.

The drone's exterior is made from custom-moulded carbon fibre, while its internal framework uses a laser-cut structure to reduce weight. The complete aircraft weighs around 11 pounds (5 kg), according to the details shared about the project.

Following the reported record-setting tests, Salvo said he plans to make further adjustments to the aircraft and conduct additional trials. He hopes the improvements will help Reaper cross the 800 kmph (500 mph) mark.