Boeing's unmanned Little Bird (ULB) helicopter demonstrator successfully completed its first unmanned flight in July 2006From Defense Technology News:
(NSI News Source Info) December 15, 2008: The Boeing unmanned Little Bird (ULB) demonstrator is a modification of the MD 530F single-turbine helicopter, designed for both manned and unmanned flight. The ULB can be remotely operated or programmed for autonomous operations in any of its three operational modes: dual pilot, single pilot or unmanned flight operations. The high payload capacity allows missions to include long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions using heavy, high-capability sensors.
Boeing's unmanned Little Bird (ULB) helicopter demonstrator successfully completed its first flight in September 2004 and the first autonomous take-off and landing was carried out in October 2004. During this phase of testing an on-board test pilot monitored the helicopter's performance but did not actively fly the aircraft. The first truly unmanned flight was completed in July 2006.
"The Boeing unmannedLittle Bird demonstrator (ULB) is a modification of the MD 530F single-turbine helicopter."
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My Comment: When I think of unmanned flying vehicles .... I think of Predators, Reapers, and the odd assortment of UAVs. I never thought that unmanned helicopters would be a priority. Reading this article .... I must confess that I am clearly wrong.
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