FS2002/FS2004 Boeing X-45A UCAV
A new era in aviation was initiated on May 22, 2002, as the X-45A Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) technology demonstrator made its first flight at Edwards AFB, Calif.
During the 14-minute flight, which was termed a complete success, the X-45A reached a speed of 195 knots and an altitude of 7,500 feet.
Flight characteristics and basic aspects of aircraft operations, particularly the command and control link between the aircraft and the mission-control station, were successfully demonstrated.
This historic step marks the beginning of flight testing of the first unmanned system designed from inception for combat.
by Kazunori Ito