Boeing X-45A UCAV
Description
Role	Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle
Crew	0
First Flight	May 22, 2002
Entered Service
Manufacturer	Boeing Integrated Defense Systems
Dimensions
Length	ft in	m
Wingspan	ft in	m
Height	ft in	m
Wing area	ft²	m²
Weights
Empty	lb	kg
Loaded	lb	kg
Maximum takeoff	lb	kg
Capacity
Powerplant
Engines
Thrust	lb	kN
Performance
Maximum speed	500 mph	800 km/h
Combat range	miles	km
Ferry range	miles	km
Service ceiling	35,000 ft	10,500 m
Rate of climb	ft/min	m/min
Wing loading	lb/ft²	kg/m²
Thrust/Weight
Avionics
Avionics

The Boeing X-45 UCAV (Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle) is a concept demonstrator for a next generation of completely autonomous fighter aircraft, developed by Boeing's Phantom Works (a Skunk Works-like division acquired through McDonnell Douglas). The X-45 is part of DARPA's J-UCAS project.

The removal of the pilot and its associated facilities dramatically reduces the aircraft's cost while also removing the pilot from harm. In addition, the aircraft are autonomous and not remotely controlled but can be commanded from a ground- or carrier-based command facilty, or make decisions on its own. Experts speculate that the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is likely to be the last U.S. manned fighter.

Boeing developed the X-45 from research gathered during the development of the Bird of Prey.

The X-45 features an extremely low-profile dorsal intake placed near the leading edge of the aircraft. The center fuselage is blended into swept lambda wings, with a small exhaust outlet. It has no vertical control surfaces.

The first generation of UCAV's are primarily planned for air-to-ground roles with defensive air-to-air capabilities coupled with significant remote piloting.

On April 18, 2004, the X-45's first bombing run test at Edwards Air Force Base was successful.

See also

• X-plane

External link

• NASA Dryden X-45A UCAV Photo Collection
• First bombing run test is a success
• Boeing X-45 Site