General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has completed the performance validation of the arresting hook, Hold Down Damper (HDD), for the US Navy’s proposed MQ-25 unmanned aerial refuelling aircraft.

The company conducted the performance testing in collaboration with a team from GKN Aerospace’s Netherlands-based Fokker business unit, which is committed to delivering the arresting hook as part of GA-ASI’s bid.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all
"The tests saw GA-ASI create simulated dynamic conditions to highlight the performance characteristics of the HDD, including damping, spring rate and pressure control functionality."

The tests saw GA-ASI create simulated dynamic conditions to highlight the performance characteristics of the HDD, including damping, spring rate and pressure control functionality.

Results from the test validated the effectiveness of the modelling tools, which are claimed to offer quick reaction capabilities to enable the completion of design and fabrication under the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) contract.

GA-ASI Aircraft Systems president David R Alexander said: “The tests successfully validated the dynamic simulation model for our HDD for MQ-25.

“The validation of this model gives us confidence ahead of production and eventual deployment.

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 is part of our ongoing effort to reduce risk and accelerate capability for the navy.”

The modelling tools verified several of the HDD’s major performance requirements with positive results for initial bounce, upswing and rebound, and bolter at nominal, cold and hot operational temperatures.

In addition, the preliminary design validated the chosen construction and manufacturing methods for the system’s production.

GA-ASI’s proposed MQ-25 is an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) that has been designed to provide the US Navy with the required refuelling capability to extend the combat range of deployed Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, Boeing EA-18G Growler and Lockheed Martin F-35C fighter jets.