Lockheed Martin X-44 (UAV)
The Lockheed Martin X-44A is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator built by the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.
| X-44A | |
|---|---|
| Role | High-altitude endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator |
| Manufacturer | Lockheed Martin |
| First flight | 2001 |
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
- http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/19582/exclusive-photos-lockheed-skunk-works-x-44a-flying-wing-drone-breaks-cover
- https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheeds-skunk-works-reveals-missing-link-in-secre-447041/
- http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/18211/exclusive-lockheed-skunk-works-x-44a-flying-wing-drone-revealed
- https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2386085/lockheed-martin-x-44a/