In partnership with the US Navy, Oklahoma-based Skydweller Aero has completed a continuous three-day flight of its uncrewed aircraft, harnessing solar energy to remain airborne.
The aircraft flew autonomously over the Gulf of Mexico, transmitting data on the Atlantic Ocean basin while avoiding thunderstorms. Though unmanned, the flight was monitored by a human crew.
The drone also carried 800 pounds (363 kilograms) of onboard payloads during the mission, highlighting its ability to sustain heavy mission systems over extended, nonstop flights.
“This accomplishment by Skydweller Aero shows how Oklahoma’s aerospace sector is delivering innovative solutions with global impact,” said Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) Executive Director Grayson Ardies.
The ODAA added that Skydweller’s achievement opens doors for both defense and humanitarian applications, from monitoring illegal fishing to supporting search-and-rescue operations.
“This was an important step to show that month-long operational flights in places like [the Indo-Pacific] are possible in reality — not just in modeling,” stated RuthAnne Darlin, director of the Department of Defense’s Operational Energy Innovation Office.
‘Uncrewed Perpetual Flight’
Skydweller’s platform is designed for “perpetual flight,” with the potential to stay aloft for over 90 days at altitudes up to 45,000 feet (13,716 meters).
It is made out of carbon fiber and has a wingspan comparable to the size of a Boeing 747 while maintaining low operational costs.
Built to reduce reliance on flight crews and maintenance teams, the aircraft can maintain nonstop coverage over battlefields or monitor maritime operations in contested waters.
In a previous navy test, the aircraft flew for 222 hours over 22 days, demonstrating a significant step toward long-duration flight.
“Our fleet of uncrewed aircraft will enable a multitude of long-duration missions that support national security and non-terrestrial communications with revolutionary cost savings,” stated Skydweller Aero Chief Executive Officer Robert Miller.
