Thu, Sep 05, 2013
Longest Unrefueled Flight By A UAS In European Airspace
The Euro Hawk unmanned aircraft system (UAS) set an endurance record Aug. 8 when it flew continuously for 25.3 hours in European airspace. Built by Northrop Grumman Corporation, operating through its subsidiary Northrop Grumman ISS International Inc. (NGISSI), and Cassidian (EADS Deutschland GmbH), the UAS climbed to 58,600 feet over Manching Air Base, Germany.
With a wingspan greater than most commercial airliners, Euro Hawk can fly at altitudes more than 60,000 feet for more than 30 hours. It can detect radar and communication emitters with its advanced signals intelligence sensors and updated payload software.
"This is the longest flight flown in European skies by an unrefueled UAS in the more than 30,000-pound class," said Rolf Wirtz, head of Mission Systems, Cassidian's UAS branch. "The Euro Hawk has performed safely and reliably with good results throughout its entire flight test program. It is the only system that can meet Germany's requirement for high-altitude signals intelligence surveillance missions."
On June 6, the Euro Hawk flew over the North Sea for the first time, soaring throughout Germany before returning 6.5 hours later to Manching Air Base.
"To date, the Euro Hawk has completed 19 flights and approximately 200 flight hours," said Janis Pamiljans, sector vice president and general manager of Unmanned Systems for Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems sector. "I commend the entire Euro Hawk customer and industry team on achieving this record-breaking flight. We remain committed to delivering the best technology solution at the most affordable cost to meet Germany's national security interests."
(Image provided by Northrop Grumman)
More News
Aero Linx: Model Aeronautical Association of Australia MAAA clubs are about fun flying, camaraderie and community. For over 75 years, the MAAA has been Australia’s largest fl>[...]
Touchdown Zone Lighting Two rows of transverse light bars located symmetrically about the runway centerline normally at 100 foot intervals. The basic system extends 3,000 feet alon>[...]
“Discovery and innovation are central to our mission at Virgin Galactic. We’re excited to build on our successful record of facilitating scientific experiments in subor>[...]
How To Get A Story On Aero-TV News/Feature Programming How do I submit a story idea or lead to Aero-TV? If you would like to submit a story idea or lead, please contact Jim Campbel>[...]
Student Pilot Reported That During Rotation, “All Of A Sudden The Back Of The Plane Kicked To The Right..." Analysis: The student pilot reported that during rotation, “>[...]