The X-47B unmanned combat air system demonstrator (UCAS-D) conducted flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) recently. The event, the most-recent in a series of carrier-based tests, demonstrated the integration of the latest in naval aviation technology with the most advanced and capable carrier.

“It is a tremendous opportunity for the ‘Big Stick’ to be a part of the development and testing of the future of Naval Aviation,” said Captain Daniel Grieco, Theodore Roosevelt’s Commanding Officer. The UCAS is an impressive system that gives us all a glimpse into the support and strike capabilities we can expect to join the fleet in the years to come. The tactical and support possibilities for such platforms are endless, and I know the crew of TR is proud to be able to be a part of that development.”

A major objective for the UCAS-D programme is to demonstrate a digitised carrier controlled environment to allow for robust communications between the aircraft and all carrier personnel involved with launching, recovering and controlling the aircraft. A digitised carrier environment will ultimately increase flexibility and improve safety.