Oklahoma-based Skydweller Aero has successfully completed its initial series of uncrewed autonomous flight tests for the Skydweller Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).
The tests, conducted from Stennis International Airport in Mississippi, included two long-duration flights, one lasting 16 hours and the other 22 ½ hours.
The goal of this campaign is to demonstrate the aircraft’s ability to remain airborne for weeks or even months, powered by solar energy and battery systems. The flight tests validate the potential for high-reliability, autonomous flight with minimal human intervention. Skydweller Aero’s unique technology aims to redefine long-endurance aviation, making it possible to carry out uncrewed missions over extended periods with zero carbon emissions.
The campaign was initiated under a Joint Concept Technology Demonstration (JCTD) from the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research & Engineering (OUSD R&E) and supported by a Cooperative Research & Development Agreement (CRADA) with the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) to explore Autonomous Maritime Patrol Aircraft (AMPA) capabilities.
“This flight test campaign is an important achievement and validates our business vision, marking a new era in autonomous aviation,” said Dr. Robert Miller, CEO and co-founder of Skydweller Aero. “Skydweller Aero is redefining what is possible in the aerospace industry, and the data gathered validates our models for multi-day flights. We are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what uncrewed solar-powered aircraft can achieve.”
Barry Matsumori, President & Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the significance of the technology’s potential. “We have accomplished a major milestone toward demonstrating the feasibility of perpetual flight by leveraging the global investment in solar energy, battery storage, and ultra-lightweight carbon fiber assemblies. As these subsystems continue to improve, we will leverage them to benefit our customers.”
The Skydweller aircraft, made entirely of carbon fiber, boasts a wingspan larger than a Boeing 747 but weighs as little as a Ford F-150. These uncrewed solar-powered aircraft are designed to perform ultra-long duration missions, such as maritime patrol, monitoring naval activities, and detecting smuggling operations, all while leaving zero carbon footprint.
Skydweller Aero’s mission is to bring perpetual, sustainable flight to global markets, providing innovative solutions to both government and commercial clients.