XV-11 Marvel

The XV‑11 Marvel is a high‑performance, remotely piloted research aircraft developed by the Advanced Aeronautics Laboratory at Mississippi State University (MSU) and first flown in spring 2018. Conceived to explore lightweight composite structures and autonomous flight control, the Marvel project brought together graduate students, faculty and industry partners. Its airframe is built primarily from carbon‑fiber‑reinforced polymer, giving a maximum take‑off weight of 1,200 lb while maintaining a wing span of 24 feet and a cruise speed of 210 knots. The aircraft features a modular avionics suite that integrates a dual‑redundant flight‑control computer, satellite‑based navigation and a configurable payload bay capable of carrying up to 150 lb of scientific instruments. One of its most notable innovations is the adaptive wing‑tip morphing system, which adjusts camber in flight to optimise lift‑to‑drag ratio across a wide speed envelope. Since its debut, the XV‑11 Marvel has supported more than 60 flight tests, contributing data that informed the design of next‑generation UAVs and low‑cost surveillance platforms. Its success underscores the role of university‑driven programs in advancing aerospace technology and training the next generation of aeronautical engineers. The XV‑11 continues to inspire future airborne innovations.

Mississippi State University

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Design & Classification