The Air Force Research Laboratory developed the low-cost unmanned air vehicle together with Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Inc. The joint effort falls within AFRL’s Low Cost Attritable Aircraft Technology portfolio, which has the goal to break the escalating cost trajectory of tactically relevant aircraft.
“The XQ-58A is the first Low Cost Attritable Aircraft Technology flight demonstrator with UAS technology to change the way we fly and fight and build and buy,” said Doug Szczublewski, program manager.
There are a total of five planned test flights for the XQ-58A, with objectives that include evaluating system functionality, aerodynamic performance, and launch and recovery systems.
AFRL is the primary scientific research and development center for the Air Force. It plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for the air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 11,000 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development.
For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com.
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