AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
Boeing’s autonomous passenger air vehicle (PAV) prototype, developed under the Boeing NeXt programme, has successfully completed its first test flight in Manassas, Virginia, the company announced on 23 January.
The electric VTOL aircraft prototype has been designed and developed by Boeing’s subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences.
During the flight, which tested the vehicle's autonomous functions and ground control systems, the PAV prototype completed a controlled take-off, hover and landing. Future flights will test forward, wing-borne flight, as well as the transition phase between vertical and forward-flight modes.
The prototype is 30ft in length and 28ft in width. Its advanced airframe integrates the propulsion and wing systems to achieve efficient hover and forward flight. It is powered by electric propulsion system and has been designed for fully autonomous flight with a range of up to 50 miles (80.47km).
Boeing NeXt works with regulatory agencies and industry partners to lead the responsible introduction of a new mobility ecosystem and ensure a future where autonomous and piloted air vehicles safely co-exist.
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.
Prototypes from Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems recently passed through MOSA conformance trials and flight tests.
Funds for the second phase of this effort will be allocated in the US Department of Defense (DoD) FY2026 budget request.