Georgia Tech student builds fast drone that hit 491 mph

Student aircraft breaks speed records

Tomas Salvo developed the experimental Reaper aircraft while living in university accommodation at Georgia Tech. He reported on X that three working prototypes sustained this claimed top speed for four minutes each. With a complete fuel load, the plane weighing $13,000 moved its 2.6-pound cargo at top speed in its quickest test. If independently confirmed, this outcome would beat the 465 mph benchmark established in 2017 when German aviator Niels Herbrich flew his Inferno plane.

Engine design and construction details

In February 2025, Salvo started creating the project by designing and building its prototypes on his own. A 250-newton turbojet powers the drone, which features a custom air intake and a titanium exhaust nozzle created via 3D printing. The exterior is built from shaped carbon-fibre pieces, whereas laser-cut elements create the interior parts. After departing from a launch rail or truck-mounted launcher, the design ascends to an altitude of 6,600 feet in just 20 seconds.

Pentagon interest and future goals

Prescott Paulin, who serves as the Director of Industry Engagement within the Department of War's Research and Engineering office, became interested in Salvo's post. Paulin publicly invited the student to visit the department after learning about the project's capabilities. Salvo plans additional flights to improve the aircraft, with the goal of eventually surpassing 500 mph. Salvo reportedly spent about $13,000 on the development effort he pursued as a student with his own funds.