General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Sccussfully Test First Flight of XQ-67A OBSS

Defense News ,U.S :- General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) made history by flying the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station (OBSS) for the first time on February 28, 2024. This aircraft is part of a program by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and GA-ASI was chosen in 2021 to create and operate this innovative vehicle.

The XQ-67A flight marks a significant achievement as it confirms the success of the concept developed with AFRL. This concept involves creating different types of aircraft using a common core chassis, an idea initially developed under the Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program.

In simpler terms, LCAAPS aimed to build multiple aircraft versions using a basic structure called a "genus." This foundational core allows the construction of various aircraft models, known as "species."

Trenton White, the OBSS Program Manager and aerospace engineer at AFRL, explained, “This provides an alternative acquisition approach for military aircraft that enables faster development, lower costs, and more opportunities for frequent technology refresh." The XQ-67A is the first aircraft of its kind designed and built from this shared platform. The successful flight demonstration is a crucial step toward proving the ability to create cost-effective combat-ready aircraft.

GA-ASI's Vice President of Advanced Programs, Michael Atwood, highlighted the significance of OBSS, stating, “OBSS is the first aircraft type built and flown using a common core chassis developed by GA-ASI that promotes commonality across multiple vehicle types.” This breakthrough opens the door to more efficient and cost-effective development of various military aircraft.