Configuration Design Development of the Navy UCAS-D X-47B

摘要

The Navy Unmanned Combat Air System Carrier Demonstration (UCAS-D) will demonstrate that an unmanned, autonomous, tailless air system shaped for low observable relevance can operate safely and effectively from an aircraft carrier, as well as demonstrate autonomous aerial refueling using both Navy and Air Force methods. This paper discusses the development of the UCAS-D X-47B air system configuration design and its evolution from the Naval Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV-N) program. The X-47B design achieved a balance of aero performance for long range/endurance, survivable shaping, and carrier suitable low speed flying qualities, all within a carrier compatible size and geometry.