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| Boeing X-45A UCAV
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|
| Description
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| Role | Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle
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| Crew | 0
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| First Flight | May 22, 2002
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| Entered Service |
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| Manufacturer | Boeing Integrated Defense Systems
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| Dimensions
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| Length | ft in | m
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| Wingspan | ft in | m
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| Height | ft in | m
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| Wing area | ft² | m²
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| Weights
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| Empty | lb | kg
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| Loaded | lb | kg
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| Maximum takeoff | lb | kg
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| Capacity |
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| Powerplant
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| Engines |
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| Thrust | lb | kN
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| Performance
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| Maximum speed | 500 mph | 800 km/h
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| Combat range | miles | km
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| Ferry range | miles | km
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| Service ceiling | 35,000 ft | 10,500 m
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| Rate of climb | ft/min | m/min
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| Wing loading | lb/ft² | kg/m²
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| Thrust/Weight |
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| Avionics
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| Avionics |
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The Boeing X-45 UCAV (Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle) is a concept demonstrator for a next generation of completely autonomous fighter aircraft, developed by Boeing's Phantom Works (a Skunk Works-like division acquired through McDonnell Douglas). The removal of the pilot and its associated facilities dramatically reduces the aircraft's cost while also removing the pilot from harm. In addition, the aircraft are autonomous and not remotely controlled but can be commanded from a ground- or carrier-based command facilty, or make decisions on its own. Experts speculate that the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is likely to be the last U.S. manned fighter.
Boeing developed the X-45 from research gathered during the development of the Bird of Prey.
The X-45 features an extremely low-profile dorsal intake placed near the leading edge of the aircraft. The center fuselage is blended into swept lambda wings, with a small exhaust outlet. It has no vertical control surfaces.
The first generation of UCAV's are primarily planned for air-to-ground roles with defensive air-to-air capabilities coupled with significant remote piloting.
On April 18, 2004, the X-45's first bombing run test at Edwards Air Force Base was successful.
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