NRL developed XFC unmanned aircraft is vertically launched

The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has successfully launched experimental fuel cell unmanned aerial system (XFC UAS) from a US Navy’s submerged Los Angeles-class submarine, USS Providence (SSN 719).

During the testing, the Sea Robin launch vehicle successfully launched the NRL-developed all-electric, fuel cell-powered UAS from the torpedo tube of the submerged submarine.

The XFC vertically launched from Sea Robin vehicle, upon command of the Providence commanding officer, and conducted the mission over several hours, demonstrating live video capabilities to Providence, surface support vessels and Norfolk, prior to landing at the Naval Sea Systems Command Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC), Andros, Bahamas.

ONR Innovation acting director, Craig Hughes, said the SwampWorks programme aims to develop disruptive technologies and quickly providing them to sailors.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"This demonstration really underpins ONR’s dedication and ability to address emerging fleet priorities," Hughes said.

"The creativity and resourcefulness brought to this project by a unique team of scientists and engineers represents an unprecedented paradigm shift in UAV propulsion and launch systems."

Funded by SwampWorks at the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and the Department of Defense Rapid Reaction Technology Office (DoD/RRTO), from concept to fleet demonstration took less than six years to produce results at significant cost savings when compared to traditional programmes.

NRL programme developer and manager Dr. Warren Schultz said the six-year effort represents the best navy laboratory and industry collaboration to develop a technology that meets the needs of the special operations community.

"The creativity and resourcefulness brought to this project by a unique team of scientists and engineers represents an unprecedented paradigm shift in UAV propulsion and launch systems," Schultz said.

The demonstration of submerged launch of a remotely deployed UAS paves the way for providing the US Navy’s submarine force with mission critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.


Image: The NRL XFC unmanned aircraft launched from a Sea Robin launch vehicle. Photo: courtesy of NAVSEA-AUTEC.

Defence Technology