Boeing Successfully Completes Autonomous Synchronized Flight Tests

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Boeing has successfully completed the first suite of tests of its new onboard autonomous command and control technology. (Photo courtesy of Boeing.)

Boeing recently conducted an initial set of successful synchronized UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle, or drones) flight tests using new onboard autonomous command and control technology developed by its Boeing in Australia division. Conducted at a regional Queensland airfield in Australia, the tests involved five UAVs using Boeing’s system to safely complete programmed in-air missions as a team without input from a human pilot.

Australian Powered

The tests came six months after Boeing established in Queensland what it says is the largest international autonomous systems development program. Boeing has partnered with 14 Queensland small- and medium-sized businesses to design, develop, and test the autonomous technology in such a short timeframe. Boeing has also formed a partnership with the Queensland Government on an Advance Queensland Autonomous Systems Platform Technology Project.

Transforming UAV Usage

Boeing Phantom Works International Director Shane Arnott says Boeing’s work in Australia offers the potential to transform how UAVs are used for air-, ground-, and sea-based civil, commercial, and defense purposes. “This capability will be a huge driver of efficiency and productivity,” he says. “By safely teaming unmanned systems with human-operated systems, we keep people away from dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks so they can focus on activities that machines can’t or shouldn’t do.”

In addition to developing autonomous flight technologies, Boeing is one of the world’s largest commercial jet aircraft manufacturers. You’ll find numerous used Boeing jet aircraft for sale every day on Controller.com, including 727s, 737s, 757s, 777s, 747s, and Boeing Business Jets.

Source: Boeing

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