UCAS X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System

X-47B UCAS

Program Overview:

The X-47B will be a transformational, carrier-capable, multi-mission, unmanned combat air vehicle. Strike fighter-sized, it is a survivable, long range, high endurance and persistent platform capable of a variety of missions including Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, and Time Sensitive Targeting/Strike.

Navy UCAS Program:

Born from the former Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems (J-UCAS) program, the Navy UCAS program will develop a strike fighter-sized unmanned air vehicle that will demonstrate carrier-based launch and recovery in the 2011 timeframe. Successful UCAS carrier landing demonstrations will set the stage for a potential full-scale UCAS development effort in support of the Naval Aviation Master Plan, which includes provisions for introduction of a Navy UCAS in the 2020 timeframe.

Objectives:

Objectives of the UCAS program are to 1) demonstrate the technical feasibility of carrier landings with a tail-less, low observable relevant planform prototype; 2) continue maturation of relevant carrier landing and integration technologies; and 3) conduct UCAS carrier landings.

Specifications

Altitude: 40,000+ ft (12 km)
Combat Radius: 1,500+ nm ISR
Payload: 4,500 lb (2,045 kg) Internal
Ferry: 3,500+ nm
Speed: High Subsonic
Sensors: EO/IR/SAR/GMTI/ESM/IO