Boeing’s autonomous Loyal Wingman makes debut flight
The first flight of Boeing’s unmanned aircraft Loyal Wingman has taken place at the Woomera Range Complex in South Australia.
Developed by Boeing in partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Loyal Wingman is the first military aircraft to be designed and manufactured in Australia in more than 50 years.
The vehicle is the prototype for Boeing’s Airpower Teaming System (ATS), envisioned as an AI-powered autonomous aerial platform that can assist other crewed and uncrewed aircraft in military operations.
Its maiden sortie saw Loyal Wingman complete a successful take-off under its own power before flying a pre-determined route at different speeds and altitudes to verify flight functionality and demonstrate the performance of the ATS design.
UK enters next stage of ‘loyal wingman’ project
“The Loyal Wingman’s first flight is a major step in this long-term, significant project for the Air Force and Boeing Australia, and we’re thrilled to be a part of the successful test,” said Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, RAAF Head of Air Force Capability.
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