The MQ-9 Reaper's automatic takeoff and landing capability has successfully been tested, which officials say could significantly expand the missions it is used for, the Air Force said on Thursday.

Previously, the aircraft was required to land at the airfield of operation, but the aircraft can now divert to other landing locations while aircrew controls it via satellite.

The U.S. Air Force announced that the capability is a key component in deciding how the aircraft will be deployed in theaters worldwide.

The 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron conducted a two-day test, taking the MQ-9 from Creech Air Force Base to Cannon AFB in New Mexico. The crew operated at Nellis AFB -- nearly 60 miles away from the aircraft.

In May, the drone aircraft got battlefield and airspace enhancements, as well as improvements to its target identification tracking and processing.

In the months prior, it received upgrades to its anti-jamming properties, available electrical power and an open architecture design of its platform.

Related Links
UAV News - Suppliers and Technology

Tweet

Thanks for being here; We need your help. The SpaceDaily news network continues to grow but revenues have never been harder to maintain. With the rise of Ad Blockers, and Facebook - our traditional revenue sources via quality network advertising continues to decline. And unlike so many other news sites, we don't have a paywall - with those annoying usernames and passwords. Our news coverage takes time and effort to publish 365 days a year. If you find our news sites informative and useful then please consider becoming a regular supporter or for now make a one off contribution.
SpaceDaily Contributor $5 Billed Once credit card or paypal		SpaceDaily Monthly Supporter $5 Billed Monthly paypal only

OSU drone expertise is supporting the exploration of Earth and the Final Frontier
Stillwater OK (SPX) Jul 07, 2021
As a descendent of pioneers who crossed the Plains 150 years ago to establish a new life in what was then referred to as The Oklahoma Territory, it's ironic that the work that I and others in the State of Oklahoma are doing today related to Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) has placed the State back at the center of what can best be described as the new "wild west of aviation." Although many States today are clamoring to be known as UAS centers of excellence, whether it be for research, testing or man ... read more