BAE Systems Testing Jetstream 31 UAS
Over the course of 17 flights, BAE Systems will test the Jetstream 31 UAS to determine how well autonomous technologies, via a satellite link, can control the aircraft.
The tests flights are being launched from BAE Systems’ military air and information facility in Warton, with the landing destination in Inverness, Scotland.
“Our priority as always is to demonstrate the safe and effective operation of autonomous systems and together with NATS we are working towards the possibility of flying our own unmanned systems in a highly controlled environment in the UK,” said Maureen McCue, head of Research and Technology for BAE Systems’ military aircraft and information business, in article from the Lancashire Evening Post.
McCue added, “the trials are an exciting time and will give us technology options that could be applied to our own manned and unmanned aircraft as well potentially enabling us to take some new unmanned aircraft technologies to market.”
Two pilots are on board during the flight to handle the takeoff and landing of the aircraft. On land, another pilot monitors the aircraft during its autonomous flight from a ground control station.
BAE Systems is footing the £400,000 bill (just above $500,000 in U.S. currency). The testing will seek to build off the discoveries from the Autonomous Systems Technology Related Airborne Evaluation and Assessment (ASTRAEA) Research and Development program, which occurred from 2008-2013.
