A resilient, 3D-printable compound such as Eclipse X9 has the potential to “reshape military logistics and expeditionary manufacturing and maritime sustainment” because of its strength and the plentiful nature of basalt throughout the island nations of the Pacific
Controlled tests measured electro-optical sensor saturation and visual-acquisition denial across two UAV platforms
Already tested extensively during land exercises, the autonomous drone was taken to sea to explore how it could be operated from a ship. Pre-programmed to fly to a specific target, the system was flown from a launcher installed on the ship’s deck.
Three Corsair unmanned surface vessels hit the port at Bandar Abbas Naval Base, marking the first time American forces have employed sea drones in combat operations.
The milestone further validates the unmanned aerial refueller’s flight controls and performance capabilities.