Boeing and General Atomics are starting joint work to integrate the Predator unmanned air vehicle (UAV) with the E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) and AH-64 Apache attack helicopter as part of a larger collaboration on network-centric operations development.
The work, which follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding this month, involves developing communications links between the E-3 and AH-64 and the Predator, as well as writing new UAV control software. The eventual aim is to demonstrate command and control of the UAV from both platforms as part of work to develop wider interoperability between manned and unmanned systems.
"It would be connected to the bigger world of network-centric operations," says Boeing unmanned systems manager Stan Kaspryzyk. "We see the UAV as more of an extension of another sensor, and even as a weapon."
Laboratory demonstrations will be conducted to develop and simulate the links using software and communications systems developed by General Atomics in San Diego, California, and Boeing at several sites.
"Near the end of the year, we should have simulations under way, and by then we should also know the level of interest from the customer," says Kaspryzyk. Although Boeing and General Atomics are funding the project, they are optimistic that government money will eventually support it. "The initial response from the USAF is very positive," Kaspryzyk adds.
Pending successful laboratory tests, the team plans flight demonstrations with an AH-64 and an E-3 next year. Tests with the USAF could take place in mid-2004 as part of the JFX-04 military exercise.
General Atomics is also working with the US Navy to demonstrate control of the Predator from a Lockheed Martin P-3 Orion, and Boeing has already demonstrated control of the TRW/Israel Aircraft Industries Hunter UAV from an AH-64 helicopter.
Source: Flight International
