Program Overview: In August 2007, the U.S. Navy selected Northrop Grumman as the prime contractor for the Unmanned Combat Air System Carrier Demonstration (UCAS-D) program. The program aims to demonstrate the capabilities of an autonomous, low-observable unmanned aircraft, specifically the X-47B, to perform carrier launches, recoveries, and autonomous aerial refueling.

Development and Testing: Northrop Grumman is developing two fighter-sized, long-range, high-endurance aircraft designated as the X-47B. The testing activities are ongoing, with the goal of completing the Navy's carrier launch and recovery objectives by 2013. Successful trials at sea could lead to further acquisition programs.

Contact Information: For further details, contact Cyndi Wegerbauer at 858.618.5323 or via email at [email protected]. The document is approved for public release with unlimited distribution as per NAVAIR 10-514 dated 14 April 2010.