Aviation

U.S. Navy Unveils First-Ever Drone Operations Hub on Aircraft Carrier

Image:BAE System

The U.S. Navy has taken a significant leap forward in naval aviation with the installation of the world’s first Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC) aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77).

This cutting-edge control center marks a new era in carrier operations, where Air Vehicle Pilots (AVPs) will oversee future MQ-25™ Stingray unmanned aerial operations, heralding the integration of drone technology into naval missions.

This ambitious project was a collaboration between several key naval entities, including the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Webster Outlying Field Alteration Installation Team, AirWorks, and industry partner Lockheed Martin. Together, they ensured the seamless integration of this groundbreaking system.

At the heart of the UAWC is the Unmanned Carrier Aviation Mission Control System (UMCS) MD-5E Ground Control Station (GCS), the first fully operational and integrated system of its kind. This advanced control room, equipped with cutting-edge software and hardware, is the command hub for the MQ-25 Stingray, the Navy’s first unmanned aerial refueler.

Central to the GCS’s functionality is Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works® Multi Domain Combat System (MDCX™), a sophisticated platform that powers the control station. This system, along with additional supporting equipment and hardware, forms the baseline for the production systems that will be installed on other carriers, including CVNs 70, 71, and 76, starting in fiscal year 2025.

The physical installation of the UAWC was a complex task, requiring precise coordination and execution. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and CVN 77 were instrumental in organizing schedules, equipment, and logistics, ensuring that the installation was completed efficiently and effectively.

Looking ahead, the USS George H.W. Bush is set to lead the first at-sea testing of the UAWC’s operational networks early next year. This testing phase will build on the initial network testing conducted in January aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), where a simulated GCS was used to validate the system’s capabilities.

The successful integration of the MQ-25 into carrier operations is overseen by PMA-268, the lead systems integrator, which works closely with industry giants Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

Aviation

Qatar Airways’ AI Campaign Lets Passengers Star in Their Own Film

Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways has introduced a groundbreaking global film, ‘AI Adventure,’ which leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance its dedication to creating unparalleled, immersive experiences for its customers.

In a pioneering move, the campaign allows viewers to star in the film using advanced AI technology that integrates their likeness into the storyline. This innovative approach underscores the airline’s commitment to placing its customers at the center of its experiences.

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The campaign offers viewers the chance to choose from various scenes and assume leading roles within the film. The advanced AI ensures that the characters accurately reflect the viewer’s appearance, adjusting to their facial features and skin tone.

To experience the emotive AI adventure, visit flyqatar.com or watch the film on the Qatar Airways YouTube channel.

For those interested in booking a journey with Qatar Airways, the new campaign highlights the ease of making Qatar Airways reservations and Qatar Airways ticket booking.

To explore more, you can use Qatar Airways booking services or check out options with QR airlines.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, commented: “At Qatar Airways, we aim not just to meet but to exceed customer expectations by anticipating their needs and creating deeply resonant experiences.

This new brand campaign is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.”

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Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, added: “Our latest campaign, featuring unprecedented AI capabilities in the airline industry, highlights our innovative spirit and customer-focused approach.

It transforms every journey into a unique adventure, proving that dreams have no limits.”

Qatar Airways Senior Vice President of Global Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mr. Babar Rahman, stated:

“This campaign exemplifies our vision as a leader in innovation. By offering a personalized brand experience where everyone can star, we’ve created meaningful connections with our audience, ensuring each moment is memorable.”