An unmanned K-MAX chopper developed by Lockheed Martin and Kaman has successfully completed test trials at the Dugway Proving Ground in Utah.
Free Buyers Guide
Leading Guide to Submarine and Submersible Suppliers for the Naval Industry
Thank you.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Related Company Profiles
Your download email will arrive shortly.Please check your mail inbox to download buyer's guide
You may also be interested in:
The test trials were set out for the chopper by the US Marines as part of their immediate cargo unmanned aerial system project.
During the pre-programmed and remote-controlled flight tests, the pilotless K-MAX moved 3,000lb using two 150nm round-trip flights within the required six-hour timeframe.
Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Sensors vice-president Dan Spoor said the system performed a rigorous set of cargo resupply scenarios as programmed, allowing the ground-based operator to monitor progress, and make adjustments to aircraft positioning.
The K-MAX chopper remained in touch with its ground station using both line-of-sight communications and satellite relay, and demonstrated the ability to upload a new flight plan in the air.
In addition, the K-MAX team demonstrated the unmanned chopper’s four-hook carousel, which allows multiload deliveries in a single flight.
The aircraft flew to three pre-programmed delivery coordinates lifting a total cargo of 3,450lb and autonomously releasing the load at each location.
A fourth load delivery was performed under manual control by the ground operator.
The K-MAX chopper is said to be best suited for Afghan operations where supplies often need to go by helicopter to forward bases that are under fire.
Free Buyers Guide
Leading Guide to Submarine and Submersible Suppliers for the Naval Industry
Thank you.
Your download email will arrive shortly.Please check your mail inbox to download buyer's guide
You may also be interested in:
By downloading this Buyers Guide, you acknowledge that GlobalData UK Limited may share your information with our partners/sponsors who may contact you directly with information on their products and services.
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how GlobalData may use, process and share your personal data, including information on 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.