Unmanned helo sets endurance record: An MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter system has set a new flight record for itself during endurance flight testing by the U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman.
The record set was 11 hours in a 150 nautical mile flight from Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, Calif.
The test was part of a series of capability tests used by the Navy to validate their concept of operations and previously tested performance parameters.
"Endurance flights provide a full evaluation of the MQ-8C Fire Scout systems," said Capt. Jeff Dodge, program manager, Fire Scout, Naval Air Systems Command. "We can better understand the capability of the system and look at crew tasks and interactions in a controlled environment. This will allow us to adjust operational procedures to maximize the system's effectiveness."
The MQ-8C Fire Scout is designed to provide persistent reconnaissance, situational awareness, and precision targeting support for ground, air and sea forces. It completed developmental flight testing earlier this year and is scheduled for operational assessment later this year.
