Aerospace

TATA plans to transform, composite corporate jet into ISR UAV

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), a prominent Indian aerospace and defense company, has set its sights on an innovative project.

The transformation of the Grob G180 SPn, a low-wing twin-engine, composite corporate jet. originally crafted by German manufacturer Grob Aerospace. Now spearheading an initiative to convert it into a cutting-edge, Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) tailored for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

The Grob G180 SPn is a remarkable evolution of a corporate jet designed to satisfy the demands of affluent business travelers. To position it at the forefront of the Unmanned Aerial System High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) category, TASL plans to transform it into a UAS with superior performance and operational characteristics. This change, which shows how flexible and inventive the aerospace sector can be, differs from the project’s original intent.

The overall goal of TASL is to create a cutting-edge ISR UAV, even though it is unclear exactly which kind of platform the company is working on—an unmanned or manned high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) platform. This innovative strategy highlights the growing trend of repurposing corporate jets for unmanned applications and TASL’s dedication to technological innovation.

Drawing inspiration from such successes, TASL’s endeavor holds promise in the aerospace industry. The Grob G180 SPn’s potential transformation into an ISR-focused UAV reflects TASL’s commitment to pushing boundaries and underscores the versatility and adaptability of corporate jets in the evolving landscape of unmanned aerial systems. TASL’s strategic move aligns with the broader trend of repurposing existing aircraft for specialized missions, showcasing the intersection of innovation and practicality in the pursuit of cutting-edge aerospace solutions.

Aerospace

Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences Expands Columbus Plant by 50,000 Sqft

Credit:Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, has launched a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi.

This ambitious project will add 50,000 square feet of new space, renovate 40,000 square feet of the existing facility, and introduce advanced automation equipment, robotics, and non-destructive inspection technologies. mcas boeing enhancements will support the growing demand for Aurora’s aerospace systems business.

Since its establishment, Aurora Mississippi has specialized in the production of advanced composite components and assemblies for both military and commercial aircraft. The company first opened in 2005 at Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville before relocating to its current site in Columbus two years later.

Initially occupying 21,000 square feet, the facility has since grown to encompass over 120,000 square feet, featuring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as automated fiber placement. Aurora’s latest expansion is a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity for composite components like boeing titanium used in executive jets and the MQ-25TM Stingray composite skins, a key project for its parent company, Boeing.

Additionally, the facility will produce components for NASA’s X-66 sustainable flight demonstrator aircraft, further diversifying its portfolio. Currently employing around 100 full-time staff in Mississippi, Aurora plans to hire more than 60 additional team members by the end of 2025.

Aurora’s expansion project underscores its commitment to Mississippi’s growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector. The company maintains strong partnerships with Mississippi State University (MSU) and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), contributing to research, higher education, and workforce development in advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, Aurora actively supports local K-12 STEM education through summer camps and collaborates with high school vocational education programs. The expansion and renovation project will be carried out in phases over the next two years, with completion expected by 2026. This development marks a significant milestone in Aurora’s ongoing growth and its role in advancing aerospace manufacturing in Mississippi.