Lockheed Martin X-44 (UAV)

The Lockheed Martin X-44A is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator built by the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.

Not to be confused with Lockheed Martin X-44 MANTA.
X-44A
Role High-altitude endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin
First flight 2001

Development

After the 1999 cancellation of the RQ-3 Darkstar, Lockheed Martin decided to build a technology demonstrator for a potential family of flying wing UAVs that could be used for combat and non-combat roles. The resulting X-44A (although apparently unrelated to the previously developed X-44 MANTA) was built in 1999 and first flew in 2001, representing an interim design between the Darkstar and P-175 Polecat. However, Lockheed Martin kept the X-44A under wraps until February 2018.[1][2]

Design

The X-44A is reportedly made from nano-carbon fiber and is powered by a Williams F122 turbofan engine. The wingspan of the X-44A is 30 feet (9.1 m), half of that of the RQ-170 Sentinel.[1]

Display
X-44A on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

The X-44A is currently on display at the National Museum of the US Air Force, near Dayton, Ohio, in the Research and Development gallery housed in Building 4.[3]

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References
  1. Rogoway, Tyler (March 23, 2018). "Exclusive Photos: Lockheed Skunk Works' X-44A Flying Wing Drone Breaks Cover". The Drive. Retrieved February 25, 2023.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  2. Trimble2, Stephen (March 26, 2018). "Lockheed's Skunk Works reveals missing link in secret UAV history". Flight Global. Retrieved February 25, 2023.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  3. "Lockheed Martin X-44A". National Museum of the United States Air Force. Retrieved February 25, 2023.
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