Boeing has confirmed that the Loyal Wingman aircraft being developed with the RAAF recently moved under its own power for the first time, a key milestone for the aircraft that’s expected to make its first flight this year.
Progress towards the milestone was first revealed by ADM Deputy Editor Nigel Pittaway back in August, when the aircraft was spotted on a runway. At the time, a Boeing spokesperson said that the aircraft was undergoing ground testing.
“Seeing the prototype take to the runway for this low-speed taxi test is an exciting moment – another significant development milestone ahead of its first flight," said Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, RAAF Head of Air Force Capability.
Reaching a maximum speed of 14 knots (approximately 16 mph, or 26 kilometers per hour), on the ground, the aircraft demonstrated several activities while maneuvering and stopping on command.
“The low-speed taxi enabled us to verify the function and integration of the aircraft systems, including steering, braking and engine controls, with the aircraft in motion,” Paul Ryder, Boeing Australia Flight Test manager, said.
Three Loyal Wingman prototypes will be the foundation for the Airpower Teaming System that Boeing will offer customers worldwide.
The aircraft will fly alongside other platforms, using artificial intelligence for such teaming missions. It has advanced design and flight characteristics, including a modular nose section that’s customizable for specific needs and a conventional takeoff and landing approach suitable for many missions and runway types.
“Runway independence ensures the aircraft will be a highly flexible and adaptable system for our global customers,” Dr. Shane Arnott, program director, Boeing Airpower Teaming System, said. “This latest test marks the first full unmanned movement of the Loyal Wingman with our Australian partners and takes us a step closer to first flight.”
BAE Systems Australia, which has more than a dozen staff and a team of engineers working on the project, welcomed the milestone.
“This is an important milestone for the program and we are pleased to be involved in bringing a new defence capability to life," BAE Systems Australia Chief Technology Officer, Brad Yelland, said.