The X-47B is a tailless, fighter-sized unmanned aircraft developed by Northrop Grumman under the U.S. Navy’s Unmanned Combat Air System Carrier Demonstration (UCAS-D) program. Designed to operate from aircraft carriers, it demonstrates autonomous carrier launches and recoveries, as well as in-flight aerial refueling.
Program Background
In August 2007, Northrop Grumman was selected as the prime contractor for the UCAS-D program. The initiative focuses on developing low-observable unmanned aircraft capable of operating in complex carrier environments, including areas with high electromagnetic interference. Air Vehicle-1 (AV-1) made its maiden flight on February 4, 2011, and has since successfully conducted multiple carrier takeoffs and landings at sea.
Variants
- X-47A: Initial proof-of-concept prototype with a 19-ft (5.9 m) wingspan; first flight in 2003.
- X-47B: Carrier demonstrator aircraft; first flown in 2011.
- X-47C: Proposed larger variant with 10,000 lb (4,500 kg) payload capacity and a 172-ft (52.4 m) wingspan.
Design & Construction
- Tailless, fighter-sized airframe constructed from composite materials with low-observable features.
- Designed to withstand corrosive saltwater conditions, accommodate deck handling, and integrate with carrier command and control systems.
- Engineered to operate in protected airspace while maintaining stealth and performance in high-interference environments.
Weapons & Payload
- Two internal weapon bays capable of carrying up to 4,500 lb (2,000 kg) of ordnance.
Sensors & Electronics
- Electro-optical and infrared sensors
- Synthetic aperture radar (SAR)
- Electronic Support Measures (ESM) sensors
- Moving Target Indicators (MTI)
Powerplant
- One Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220U turbofan engine
Specifications
- Type: Carrier-capable Unmanned Combat Air System
- Crew: None (semi-autonomous)
- Operator: U.S. Navy
- Top Speed: High subsonic
- Range: Over 2,100 nm
- Service Ceiling: >40,000 ft
- Designer: Northrop Grumman
- First Flight: February 4, 2011
- Engine: 1× Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220U turbofan
- Dimensions: Length 38.2 ft (11.63 m), Wingspan 62.1 ft (folded: 30.9 ft / 18.92 m / 9.41 m), Height 10.4 ft (3.10 m)
