Boeing X-45A Unmanned Aircraft Demonstrates Autonomous Capability

June 25, 2005 The Boeing X-45A unmanned aircraft continues to impress in trials as it showcases its ability to adapt to a realistic and changing wartime operational environment. During a recent test flight, its 52nd to date, an X-45A departed from NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California, climbed to 29,000 ft. and entered the base’s test range. While flying the mission, several simulated Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) emitters were activated and the unmanned aircraft autonomously created its own flight plan to remain out of lethal range of the simulated SAM sites. Always managed by the pilot-operator, the X-45A then attacked its simulated priority ground target and showcased the ability to suppress enemy air defenses. Once the aircraft had conducted a simulated battle damage assessment, the X-45A safely returned to Edwards.

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