From The Archives: Unmanned Unchained

On the cover of Aviation Week’s May 11-14, 2015, edition, the U.S. Navy's Northrop Grumman X-47B uncrewed combat aircraft demonstrator receives fuel from an Omega Boeing K-707 tanker, marking the first time an uncrewed aircraft had been autonomously refueled in flight. 

The X-47B remained connected to the tanker for more than 11 min., receiving roughly 4,000 lb. of fuel during the April 22 event. 

It was the second historic aviation milestone for the flying-wing aircraft, which in July 2013 also made the first uncrewed aircraft arrested landings and catapult takeoffs from an aircraft carrier at sea. (U.S. Navy photo).

Read the feature on page 64, Unmanned Systems: Endurance is the defining characteristic that is giving unmanned aircraft their foothold in aviation. 

Read the full issue dated May 11-24, 2015 | Aviation Week

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