Visually Speaking

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We’ve already shown Boeing’s concept in DARPA’s Vulture high-altitude, extremely long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle program. Now its two competitors, Aurora Flight Sciences and Lockheed Martin, have released artist renderings of their own designs. Aurora calls its concept Odysseus. Lockheed Martin’s aircraft is equally intriguing. All three companies won Phase 1 contracts earlier this month to commence with the design and development of their respective aircraft. DARPA wants an unmanned system that is “able to fly on station and perform its mission for five years without interruption.”

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org