PteroDynamics Showcases Transwing® UAV at U.S. Navy Event
PteroDynamics has successfully showcased the capabilities of its innovative Transwing® vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system during the U.S. Naval Forces Southern command/U.S. 4th Fleet Hybrid Fleet campaign Event (HFCE) aboard the expeditionary fast transport vessel, USNS Burlington.
demonstrating Advanced Logistics Solutions
Throughout a six-day period starting October 8, 2023, the Transwing aircraft executed nine autonomous launch and recovery operations from the USNS Burlington, located in Key West, Florida.This event highlighted the aircraft’s potential to enhance logistics and critical maritime resupply missions, facilitating both ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore operations.
Evaluating Unmanned and manned Systems
The Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event aimed to assess the integration of unmanned and manned systems, enabling the U.S. 4th Fleet to fulfill broader operational objectives. This platform provided a unique opportunity for various technology developers to collaborate with operational forces, test new systems in real-world scenarios, and gather valuable feedback from Navy personnel.
Leadership Engagement and Insights
Senior military leaders, including Vice Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti, attended the event, witnessing firsthand the capabilities of systems that could bolster the hybrid fleet. Representatives from the U.S. Navy, Royal Navy, Royal australian Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy, and Swedish Navy were also present, emphasizing the international interest in these advancements.
Quotes from PteroDynamics Leadership
“Our participation in the Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event has brought us closer to achieving our vision of providing the U.S. Navy with a versatile and scalable automated cargo delivery system for shore-to-ship, ship-to-ship, and ship-to-shore operations,” stated Tim Whitehand, Vice President of Engineering at PteroDynamics.
“Conducting flight tests aboard the USNS Burlington allowed us to gather critical performance data in an operational setting. the insights gained will expedite our progress process and inspire further innovations. We appreciate the support from the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) and Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) during this meaningful exercise.”
Overview of the Transwing VTOL Aircraft System
PteroDynamics’ Transwing represents a groundbreaking advancement in VTOL aircraft technology, effectively addressing the limitations found in customary VTOL designs. By merging the speed, range, and endurance of fixed-wing aircraft with exceptional VTOL capabilities, it offers a highly automated and efficient platform.
Innovative Design Features
The Transwing’s unique folded wing design enhances controllability and mimics the handling characteristics of multicopters, allowing it to withstand gusty conditions and perform takeoffs and landings in challenging maritime environments. this design facilitates a smooth transition between vertical and horizontal flight, eliminating the need for additional propulsors and their associated weight and drag.
key Operational Insights from flight Tests
The successful flight tests conducted from the USNS Burlington yielded essential data regarding the operational capabilities of the Transwing platform, including:
- Seamless integration of the UAV with ship operations
- Autonomous takeoff and landing utilizing computer vision technology
- Effective transition from VTOL to cruise flight
- Navigation capabilities to and from a moving vessel at sea
