Joint Flight Test of Manned and Unmanned Aircraft
Overview of the Test
On October 21, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), in collaboration with Lockheed Martin and L3Harris Technologies, conducted a significant flight experiment at the Nevada Test and Training Range. The objective was to assess the interoperability between a manned F-22 Raptor and an unmanned GA-ASI MQ-20 Avenger, thus demonstrating the potential for integrated operations within tomorrow’s air combat environment.
Key Objectives and Achievements
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Connectivity Assessment: The primary goal of the exercise was to evaluate the seamless connectivity between the crewed fighter jet, the uncrewed aircraft, and associated ground control stations.
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Innovative Collaboration: OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, articulated that this initiative showcases Lockheed Martin’s commitment to advancing aerial warfare paradigms. He emphasized the significance of intuitive cockpit interfaces for managing drones, which could reshape future combat strategies.
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Underpinning Project Carrera: This test aligns with Lockheed Martin’s Project Carrera, a USD 100 million investment aimed at enhancing the synergy between crewed and uncrewed platforms, initially announced in September 2022. The project’s overarching goal is to revolutionize how air combat operations are executed, integrating various platforms into a cohesive unit.
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Future Force Architecture: Braxton Rehm, principal at L3Harris Technologies overseeing USAF Advanced Program Requirements, indicated that this flight test represents a vital advancement in linking manned fighters with unmanned systems. Such integration is viewed as a foundational element of the evolving force structure for the United States Air Force.
Technical Specifications and Network Functionality
Rehm noted that the experiment successfully established a mesh network connecting the three operational nodes. The aim was to ensure that the pilot in the F-22 could interact seamlessly with the MQ-20 and ground systems, without requiring manual intervention from the drone operator or ground control.
- Objectives of the Mesh Network:
- Achieve real-time command and control integration between the F-22 and the MQ-20.
- Facilitate digital command dissemination from the fighter aircraft to the uncrewed vehicle, enabling operational directives and tactical adjustments.
This successful demonstration not only exemplifies the potential for enhanced situational awareness and operational effectiveness but also sets a precedent for future developments in cooperative unmanned operations.
Conclusion
The implications of this flight test extend beyond immediate operational capabilities. By exploring the integration of manned and unmanned systems, defense stakeholders are paving the way for a more agile and responsive aerial combat force. Such innovations are critical for maintaining strategic advantages in increasingly complex threat environments.
For defense professionals seeking detailed insights into military capabilities, equipment, and market dynamics, innovative exchanges like this flight test underscore the importance of cross-platform collaboration for future readiness.
