Lockheed Martin X-44 (UAV)

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X-44A
Role High-altitude endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin
First flight 2001

The Lockheed Martin X-44A is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator built by the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.

Development[]

After the 1999 cancellation of the RQ-3 Darkstar, Lockheed Martin decided to build a technology demonstrator for a potential family of flying wing UAVs that could be used for combat and non-combat roles. The resulting X-44A (although apparently unrelated to the previously developed X-44 MANTA) was built in 1999 and first flew in 2001, representing an interim design between the Darkstar and P-175. However, Lockheed Martin kept the X-44A under wraps until February 2018.[1][2]

Design[]

The X-44A is reportedly made from nano-carbon fiber and is powered by a Williams F122 turbofan engine. The wingspan of the X-44A is 30 feet (9.1 m), half of that of the RQ-170 Sentinel.[3]

Display[]

The X-44A is currently on display at the National Museum of the US Air Force, near Dayton, Ohio, in the Research and Development gallery housed in Building 4. [4]

See also[]

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References[]

  1. ^ "Exclusive Photos: Lockheed Skunk Works' X-44A Flying Wing Drone Breaks Cover".
  2. ^ "Lockheed's Skunk Works reveals missing link in secret UAV history".
  3. ^ "Exclusive: Lockheed Skunk Works' X-44A Flying-Wing Drone Revealed".
  4. ^ "Lockheed Martin X-44A".
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