Northrop has successfully completed a five-week series of structural proof tests of the US Navy second X-47B unmanned combat air system (UCAS).

The proof testing has proved that the aircraft can withstand all structural stresses and strains associated with take-off, flight and landing from the moving, pitching deck of an aircraft carrier.

AV-2 is identical to the first X-47B UCAS demonstration aircraft (AV-1), except that it will be equipped with aerial refuelling equipment.

The aircraft will also be used to demonstrate unmanned air-to-air refuelling using both the boom / receptacle approach and the probe and drogue approach in 2014.

Northrop is the US Navy prime contractor for the unmanned combat air system – demonstration (UCAS-D) programme awarded in 2007 to design, develop and produce two X-47B aircraft.

Naval Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Naval Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Virtualitics has secured the Innovation and Business Expansion awards for its Integrated Readiness Optimization (IRO) suite. Discover how its explainable AI is transforming maintenance, sustainment and mission readiness, giving defence leaders faster, clearer, and more confident operational decisions.

Discover the Impact