This recent test flight shows the Automated Aerial Refuelling system (AAR), developed by the US Air Force Research Laboratory and Boeing Phantom Works, manoeuvring a Calspan Learjet equipped to fly autonomously and unmanned into one of seven refuelling positions behind a KC-135R tanker.

The AAR programme is developing and demonstrating flight control systems that will enable unmanned air vehicles to safely approach and manoeuvre around tanker aircraft so they can successfully perform boom and receptacle refuelling operations.

UAV Refuelling
©US Air Force 




Source: Flight International