Stealth technology isn’t limited strictly to aircraft and naval vessels. The United States military has announced plans to fund the design for a stealth motorcycle that special forces units could use to infiltrate enemy territory undetected.
Dubbed the “Silent Hawk,” it originated from a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)-sponsored challenge several years back in which companies were asked to design a stealth vehicle that ground troops could use to quickly and efficiently navigate terrain. After scouring through hundreds of entries, the National Defense Industrial Association displayed two of the selected vehicles, one of which being the Silent Hawk.
So, how exactly does the Silent Hawk work? Well, details regarding its specific technology remain unknown, and rightfully so — the company behind the bike, Logos, doesn’t want to give away its secrets. However, reports indicate that the Silent Hawk weighs just 350 pounds and has a maximum range of 170 miles. In terms of speed, it’s fast although not necessarily the fastest at 80 mph.
The real beauty of the Silent Hawk, however, is its stealth technology. The Silent Hawk has several different modes of operation, including a quite mode that limits its noise production to less than 55 decibels. In comparison, a traditional gas-powered motorcycle emits roughly 90 decibels at 25 feet. That means the Silent Hawk produces nearly half the noise as a standard motorcycle.
“With its thin profile and innovative two-wheel drive, Silent Hawk makes easy work of thick forests, narrow mountain paths, and rocky landscapes. The military bike is lightweight and is made for easy deployment—its large cargo capacity, auxiliary power ports, and interactive user interface support deep-penetrating operations,” revealed Logos when announcing the Silent Hawk.
The Silent Hawk doesn’t run on gas, however, instead opting for a rechargeable battery. But like all electric motorcycles, it has a limited range. Reports indicate that it can run for roughly 2 hours or 170 miles before needing to be recharged. Some people may view this as a drawback, but in reality it’s actually better than a gas-powered engine. When special forces are on a mission, they probably won’t have access to traditional gas stations and petrol pumps. But the Silent Hawk is technically classified as a hybrid engine, meaning it’s capable of running on electricity or fuel — and not just gasoline, but also kerosene, diesel, jet fuel or any type of flammable and combustible liquid.
What are your thoughts on the Silent Hawk?
Consider Sharing
If this post has helped you, please take a moment to share it with someone you know in your social accounts or email. The more people who know this information, the better America will be.
About the author
Barry Mason is a proud third-generation American whose grandfather served in World War II. Born and raised in small-town Tennessee, Barry developed a deep appreciation for American history and traditions from an early age, learning about the sacrifices made by previous generations. Barry has spent over a decade writing about flag etiquette, patriotic traditions, military history, and the stories behind America's most cherished symbols. When he's not researching the fascinating history of Old Glory, you can find Barry volunteering at veterans' events, coaching youth baseball, or exploring America's national parks with his family. A firm believer in supporting American manufacturing and small businesses, Barry is passionate about celebrating the craftspeople who keep American traditions alive. He lives with his wife and two children in a home where the American flag flies proudly every day. Favorite quote: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction." - Ronald Reagan
