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UAV · Unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator

Boeing X-45

USA

The Boeing X-45 is a stealthy jet-powered UCAV technology demonstrator developed under DARPA/USAF and later the J-UCAS program. The X-45A first flew in May 2002 and demonstrated autonomous strike capability with an internal weapons bay.

CountryUSA
SubcategoryFixed-wing
SubtypeUnmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator
RoleStrike/SEAD demonstrator
ClassUCAV demonstrator
ClassificationUCAV demonstrator
MissionStrike (SEAD), ISR, Autonomous combat demonstration
DatalinkDatalink for ground control
VariantsX-45A, X-45C (larger, J-UCAS)
MTOW (kg)5443
OperatorsUSAF / DARPA (test)
Frame typeFixed-wing
Length (m)8.08
Propulsion1x Honeywell F124-GA-100 turbofan
Wingspan (m)10.31
Combat-provenNo
Export statusNot exported
Launch methodRunway takeoff
Autonomy levelHigh autonomy with operator supervision
Recovery methodRunway landing
Year introduced2002
Max payload (kg)680
Max speed (km/h)987
Production statusDemonstrator (program ended 2006)
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Review-stage catalogue data — specs corroborated from manufacturer and secondary sources; not for procurement decisions. Source: www.boeing.com