Boom Supersonic will unveil its prototype demonstrator jet on Oct. 7.
The XB-1 is a one-third-to-scale version of Boom's planned Overture aircraft, which the Denver-based startup hopes will become the first commercial supersonic airliner to take to the sky since the Concorde was grounded in 2003. The 55- to 75-seat Overture is being designed for a top speed of Mach 2.2.
The XB-1, Boom said, will demonstrate key technologies, such as advanced carbon fiber composite construction; computer-optimized, high-efficiency aerodynamics; and an efficient supersonic propulsion system.
Boom plans to begin test-flying the XB-1 next year.
The company has received prominent support from the Virgin Group and Japan Airlines, which between them have purchase options for 30 Overture planes.
"With XB-1, we're demonstrating that we are prepared to bring back supersonic," Boom CEO Blake Scholl said. "We're ensuring that the supersonic future is safe and environmentally and economically sustainable. We've learned that the demand for supersonic has grown even faster than we anticipated."