Tech

Boeing’s Software Advances Enable Future Manned-Unmanned Refueling

Boeing has used a digital F/A-18 Super Hornet and MQ-25 Stingray to develop its manned-unmanned teaming technology.

Testing reveals that the software is developing for prospective use by the US Navy in the future, including the possibility of deploying the teaming capability on F/A-18 Block II and III Super Hornets.

A Boeing-led team used the platforms’ current communications links to practically simulate an F/A-18 pilot controlling an unmanned MQ-25 to release a refuelling drogue and refuel the Super Hornet in a simulator lab.

The upgraded software is an evolution of earlier experiments conducted by Boeing. To further demonstrate Boeing’s preparedness to provide this capability to the Navy, test teams not only changed the software but also brought in hardware and datalinks that were already set up on both platforms to run the finished product.

Pilots will have more flexibility when refuelling from larger distances because to the software developed by Boeing, which will drastically shorten the time it takes for an F/A-18 to communicate with a MQ-25.

“MUM-T refuelling was intended to be as realistic as possible,” stated Juan Cajigas, the director of the Advanced MQ-25 programme. Aerial refuelling resembles a ballet performed by two aircraft joining forces. The ability for a single pilot to safely and effectively oversee the operations is a significant advancement in aerial refuelling technology.

Aerospace

China’s Fighter Jets Turn Wings into Autonomous Drones

In a striking display of aerospace innovation, Chinese engineers have reportedly tested a groundbreaking “combiner” blended-wing stealth aircraft with detachable drone wings.

This transformative technology, reminiscent of fictional “combiner” Transformers, was showcased during a test flight at an undisclosed airport near the Mu Us Desert’s southern edge.

The stealth fighter, equipped with powerful twin-engine turbofans and a sleek delta-wing design, demonstrated unprecedented versatility. During the flight, segments of its wings detached, seamlessly transforming into two separate “flying wing” drones powered by electric fans.

This capability marks a significant leap in aerial warfare, enabling the fighter to deploy autonomous drones mid-flight for strategic operations.

Future stealth fighters will prioritize integration with drones

Yang Wei, chief designer of China’s J-20 stealth fighter, emphasized that future iterations will prioritize seamless integration with drones. The development includes plans for a two-seater variant of the J-20 to enhance operational coordination with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), reflecting China’s strategic focus on combined arms tactics.

The next-generation stealth fighter design integrates two drones directly into the aircraft’s delta wing structure, departing from earlier attempts that fixed drones to wingtips.

This innovative “rear edge docking configuration,” connecting leading edges of the drones to the fighter’s trailing edge, enhances stability during separation. However, it poses challenges such as managing significant changes in the aircraft’s center of gravity and aerodynamic balance.

FCC-100 flight control computer ensures precise control

To address these complexities, Du’s team developed advanced algorithms capable of analyzing and compensating for disturbances like wind changes during drone separation. Both the fighter and the drones utilize the cutting-edge FCC-100 flight control computer from Northwestern Polytechnical University, ensuring precise control and maneuverability.

While specific details about the test flight date remain classified, the project signifies remarkable advancements in aircraft stability and control. These developments pave the way for practical applications in future combat scenarios.

Chinese scientists are also exploring additional technologies like plasma stealth and advanced airflow management to further enhance the capabilities of their next-generation fighters.