SAN DIEGO, CA - In a significant leap forward for military aircraft technology, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) successfully completed the first flight of the revolutionary XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station (OBSS) on February 28. This groundbreaking event marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and GA-ASI, and underscores their commitment to redefining the future of military aircraft through the Low-Cost Avionics Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program launched in 2021.
The XQ-67A OBSS, an ambitious project funded by AFRL, represents the first practical application of the "genus/species" concept, a novel approach to aircraft design that seeks to establish a common core chassis - or "genus" - from which multiple aircraft variants, or "species," can be developed. This innovative strategy is designed to streamline the military aircraft acquisition process, allowing for faster development, reduced costs, and increased adaptability to technological advances.
Trenton White, the OBSS program manager and an aerospace engineer in AFRL's Aerospace Systems Directorate, emphasized the significance of this milestone: "The successful flight of the XQ-67A is a monumental step in demonstrating our ability to produce affordable combat mass through an alternative acquisition framework. By leveraging a common platform, we can accelerate the pace of development and more seamlessly introduce frequent technology updates".
Michael Atwood, GA-ASI's vice president of advanced programs, emphasized the broader implications of this achievement: "The OBSS is the first of its kind to use a common core chassis that promotes consistency across vehicle types. This is more than just a successful test flight; it's validation of a new paradigm in military aircraft manufacturing.
GA-ASI, known for its reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems and advanced sensor technologies, continues to lead the industry in innovation and operational excellence. The XQ-67A OBSS flight represents a significant advancement in the company's extensive portfolio, which includes the renowned Predator® RPA series and Lynx® multi-mode radar.
AFRL remains at the forefront of scientific research and development for the Department of the Air Force, driving the discovery, development and integration of warfighting technologies for air, space and cyberspace forces. This latest accomplishment with the XQ-67A OBSS exemplifies the Laboratory's ongoing commitment to maintaining the United States' edge in military technology.
Source: Knowledge Bylanes
