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Solar-powered unmanned aircraft flies for 73 consecutive hours

US Navy-Industry Partnership Advances Innovation in Long-Endurance Solar Aircraft

Solar-powered unmanned aircraft flies for 73 consecutive hours

Photo: Skydweller Aero/Reproduction

The United States Navy, in partnership with Skydweller Aero, successfully completed a non-stop flight of a solar-powered unmanned aircraft during a test in Stennis, Mississippi.

Under the leadership of Nawcad (Aircraft Division of the Naval Air Warfare Center), the operation lasted 73 consecutive hours, demonstrating important advances in long-endurance solar air vehicle technology and its potential for maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.

The test demonstrated the ability of aviation to operate continuously using solar energy, achieving a positive energy balance that allows for prolonged flights without the need for refueling.

The aircraft has solar panels installed on its surface. Photo: Skydweller Aero/Reproduction/YouTube

According to Skydwelle, the aircraft stood out for offering continuous surveillance over large areas, freeing up more sophisticated systems for specialized tasks, such as rapid response and the use of advanced sensors.

New tests with the aircraft are scheduled to take place later this summer in the Southcom (US Southern Command) area of responsibility.

Nawcad is a company responsible for testing, research, development and support of the Navy and Marine Corps' air platforms.

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Caique Amorim
About the Author
Caique Amorim

Journalism student at the Pontifical Catholic University of Campinas. I have experience in producing journalistic material.

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