Based off the successful MQ-9 Reaper, the new MQ-4C Triton represents the cutting edge of surveillance technology. With a flight ceiling of 18,288 m (60,000 ft) the Triton is capable of providing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance from a perch well beyond the reach of most foes.
Replete with sensors that provide the craft a 3,218 km (2,000 mi) wide, 360-degree view, the MQ-4C has a long, autonomous leash and is capable of automatically classifying any ships it may survey on its 24-hour ventures.
Beyond its autonomous capabilities, the Triton will also be host to a suite of software that will allow its four-person, land-based crew to gather high-res imagery and radar detection data which they can share with forward operating units.
While still in development, the Triton is making long strides towards full service and recently completed its ninth flight trial near Northrup Grumman’s manufacturing facility in Palmdale, California. The craft has already demonstrated its ability to reach 15,240 m (50,000 ft) and cruise for over 9 hours, meaning that it is well on its way to meeting the Navy’s requirements.
At present, the US Navy has a contract with Northrup Grumman to buy 68 Tritons for the total price of $1.32B. Delivery of the drones was initially expected for December 2015; however, technical delays have postponed the drone’s release until 2017.
Once airborne, each Triton is expected to have an airframe life that will last the better part of six years. Given the exorbitant costs of today’s other advanced aircraft, a serviceable, sub-$1B craft is quite a bargain and could represent the future of US air operations.
Images & Video Courtesy of Wikipedia & US Navy