Innovative Long-Endurance Drone Successfully Tested
Packet Digital, in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), has achieved a significant milestone with the successful inaugural flight of their advanced long-endurance Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).
revolutionary design and Technology
This hybrid, fixed-wing drone is equipped with solar panels on its wings, cutting-edge autonomous soaring algorithms, and hydrogen fuel cell technology, marking a breakthrough in small UAS capabilities. This innovative design enables the drone to remain airborne for over 48 hours.
Successful Testing Phase
The initial operational testing phase took place at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland in late November 2020,showcasing the drone’s potential for extended missions.
Expert Insights
terri Zimmerman, CEO of Packet Digital, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Collaborating with NRL and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Operational Energy capability Enhancement Fund (OECIF) has been a privilege. Our expertise lies in developing efficient power management systems tailored for the UAS sector. This project allowed us to showcase our capabilities in power management, solar integration, and overall UAS development.”
Funding for Energy Innovations
The OECIF is dedicated to funding energy advancements that enhance the operational efficiency of the Department of Defense (DoD), aligning investments with the DoD’s Operational Energy Strategy.
Meeting Strategic Requirements
by integrating various technologies such as photovoltaics, hydrogen fuel cells, and refined energy management systems, this UAS aims to fulfill the DoD’s ‘Third Offset’ strategy.Moreover, the ‘Pacific Pivot’ initiative necessitates that these drones operate for prolonged durations over expansive oceanic areas, leveraging the abundant solar energy available in those regions.
Looking Ahead
Zimmerman noted, “The development of this multi-day drone required the seamless integration of leading-edge technologies. The results of this project underscore the remarkable flight endurance capabilities achievable today, and it’s thrilling to consider the implications for the industry in the future.”
