Lockheed Martin X-44 (UAV)
The Lockheed Martin X-44 is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator built by the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.
| X-44 | |
|---|---|
| Role | High-altitude endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator |
| Manufacturer | Lockheed Martin |
| First flight | 2001 |
Development
After the 1999 cancellation of the RQ-3 Darkstar, Lockheed Martin decided to build a technology demonstrator for a potential family of flying wing UAVs that could be used for combat and non-combat roles. The resulting X-44 (designation previously allocated to the X-44 MANTA) was built in 1999 and first flew in 2001, representing an interim design between the Darkstar and P-175. However, Lockheed Martin kept the X-44 under wraps until February 2018.[1][2]
Design
The X-44 is reportedly made from nano-carbon fiber and is powered by a Williams F122 turbofan engine. The wingspan of the X-44 is 30 feet, half of that of the RQ-170 Sentinel.[3]
See also
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
- Lockheed Martin RQ-170 Sentinel
- Lockheed Martin RQ-3 Dark Star
- Lockheed Martin P-175 Polecat
Related lists
Sources
- Specifications and second and third paragraphs: Display information on exhibit at Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington, United States.
References
- http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/19582/exclusive-photos-lockheed-skunk-works-x-44a-flying-wing-drone-breaks-cover
- https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheeds-skunk-works-reveals-missing-link-in-secre-447041/
- http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/18211/exclusive-lockheed-skunk-works-x-44a-flying-wing-drone-revealed