Aviation

Boeing, U.S. Navy Demonstrate Manned-Unmanned Teaming with Super Hornet Flight Tests

Boeing Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet successfully demonstrated command and control of three unmanned aerial vehicles for the first time.

Published

1 year ago

July 16, 2022

Dawal

Boeing, U.S. Navy Demonstrate Manned-Unmanned Teaming with Super Hornet Flight Tests

– A Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet test jet controls three unmanned aerial vehicles

– The software development, connectivity to the fighter and flight tests were completed in less than six months. Manned-unmanned teaming is a key capability for the U.S. Navy

ST. LOUIS, 15 JULY 2022 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the United States Navy have completed a series of MUM-T flight tests in which a Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet successfully demonstrated command and control of three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

To collaborate with the UAVs, Boeing system engineers linked Block III’s auxiliary processor, known as the Distributed Targeting Processor – Networked (DTP-N), with a third-party tablet. Boeing created new software loads for the DTP-N that are specifically designed for running the third-party tablet and transmitting commands. In less than six months, the software development, tablet connection to the fighter, and all flying testing were completed.

“Block III Super Hornet is delivering on its promise of hardware that is ready to receive future software,” said Ben LeGrand, Boeing head of Mission Systems. “With modest modifications, Block III Super Hornet will integrate third-party systems and software.”

On the demonstration, Boeing collaborated with the F/A-18 & EA-18G Program Office (PMA-265), Air Test and Evaluation Squadrons (VX) 23 and 31, the Naval Air Warfare Center-Weapons Division at China Lake, Calif., and a third-party vendor. During the test flights, F/A-18 pilots entered commands into the tablet, which were then processed and relayed by the Block III hardware. During two weeks of testing, the UAVs carried out all directions supplied by F/A-18 pilots.

“This successful MUM-T demonstration is an important step toward the Navy’s concept of Distributed Maritime Operations.” It demonstrates the capability of unmanned ideas to broaden and extend the Navy’s reach,” said Scott Dickson, Boeing’s director of Multi-Domain Integration. “As part of a Joint All-Domain Command and Control network, teams of UAVs executing ISR missions commanded by the latest Super Hornets equipped with network-enabled data fusion and enhanced capabilities would provide significant information advantage to warfighters across the Joint Force.”

The F/A-18 is an industry leader in the development and installation of the hardware and computing power required for future digital capabilities and expansion, boasting the largest digital touch screen in any fighter cockpit. The demonstration’s auxiliary processor adds significant computing power to the F/mission A-18’s processing suite.

“Future fighter pilots will be the quarterbacks of the sky, directing directives and controlling unmanned aerial vehicles from the integrated Block III touch-screen cockpit,” said Mark Sears, Boeing vice president and programme manager for the F/A-18 and EA-18G programmes. “The Block III Super Hornet is a bridge to the future and a risk reduction for the Navy, which is already delivering on teaming, networking, and interoperability.”

Airlines

These are the four-star low-cost Carriers for 2024

Published

20 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

These are the four-star low-cost Carriers for 2024

In the rapidly evolving world of aviation, staying ahead of the curve and finding the most cost-effective options for air travel is crucial for both travelers and airlines alike. As we approach the year 2024, Apex, a renowned authority in the aviation industry, has released its highly anticipated list of four-star low-cost carriers.

These are the airlines with Four-Star and Five-Star APEX ratings for 2024.(Opens in a new browser tab)

The APEX Four Star Airline Awards were unique since they were created solely from verified passenger reviews submitted by more than a million fliers using TripIt.

These airlines have achieved a remarkable combination of price and great service, making them the top alternatives for budget-conscious travelers searching for a pleasant and joyful flying experience. In this article, we will look at the four-star low-cost airlines for 2024.

Global Passenger Choice airline Award Winners 2022 by Apex.(Opens in a new browser tab)

low-cost Airlines

Allegiant
Breeze
GOL
Southwest
Spirit
Sun Country Airlines
WestJet

Airlines

These are the airlines with Four-Star and Five-Star APEX ratings for 2024.

Published

21 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

These are the Airlines with Four and Five-Star APEX Ratings for 2024

In the ever-evolving world of aviation, these awards stand as a testament to excellence, innovation, and outstanding service within the airline industry. As travelers around the globe seek ever more personalized and remarkable experiences, these airlines have risen to the occasion, setting new standards for quality, comfort, and customer satisfaction.

World class airline awards 2022 by Apex(Opens in a new browser tab)

The APEX Five Star and Four Star Airline Awards were unique since they were created solely from verified passenger reviews submitted by more than a million fliers using TripIt.

Global Passenger Choice airline Award Winners 2022 by Apex.(Opens in a new browser tab)

Here, we’ve highlighted some of the 2024 Apex Four-Star and Five-Star Airlines Awards, recognizing these airline giants and the outstanding traveler experiences they provide. Whether you are a frequent traveler or only sometimes do so, these awards highlight the airlines who have changed the definition of what it means to fly in luxury and grace.

REGIONAL AIRLINE FIVE STAR*

GLOBAL AIRLINES FOUR STAR

British Airways
Ethiopian
Polish Airlines
Malaysia Airlines
Pakistan International Airlines
South African Airways
Thai Airways International

MAJOR ‎AIRLINES FOUR STAR

Aegean Airlines
AirEuropa
Avianca
flydubai
Royal Jordanian
SriLankan Airlines

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Airlines

Qantas says cost to fly may rise, Due to Soaring Jet Fuel Prices

Published

21 hours ago

September 25, 2023

Sana khan

Qantas says cost to fly may rise, Due to Soaring Jet Fuel Prices

Qantas has been absorbing a $200 million increase in fuel costs, the airline warned that if prices continue to rise, the costs may be passed on to customers and it may raise its already high ticket rates.

The airline reported in a market update that fuel costs have gone up 30% since May of this year, including 10% just in the past month. “This is driven by a combination of higher oil prices, higher refiner margins, and a lower Australian dollar,” Qantas stated.

Boeing warns new defect on 787 Dreamliners will slow deliveries(Opens in a new browser tab)

But Qantas asserted that it will keep an eye on fuel costs in the upcoming months and “look to adjust its settings” if they continue to be this high. Any modifications would aim to strike a balance between the need for reasonably priced travel in a situation where tickets are already high, according to Qantas.

Qantas and competing airlines use methods of hedging to control erratic pricing changes. An effort to win back consumer support that included an apology from the airline’s new CEO, Vanessa Hudson, and a commitment to rebuild the airline’s reputation after a “humbling period” is in jeopardy as a result of the warning about ticket prices.

Pilots warned of ‘low sealings’ at Utqiagvik airport Seal Sunbathing on the Runway(Opens in a new browser tab)

Analyst Owen Birrell with RBC Capital Markets predicted that the firm will likely accept the higher fuel costs “until its target margins come under pressure, and then would seek to claw back those costs through capacity cuts and higher fares.”

Given the increased competition, expanding consumer and corporate cost pressures, and incoming reinvestment in the product/platform, we don’t think a substantial earnings shift is possible going forward.

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