The system will utilize significant improvements in the reliability and maintainability of subsystems and low observables materials, robust prognostics and health management systems, and reduced manpower needed to operate and maintain the vehicles.
Another motivating factor for the Common Operating System is the level of autonomy versus human-in-the-loop operation needed during the operation of the J-UCAS.
This Common Operating System is being designed so that it can, in effect, host a number of other configurations that might be required to pursue missions of a similar type as we move into the future and the requirements for the existing platforms change.
It is "the largest unmannedsystems development ever undertaken" by the Pentagon, according to Michael Francis, director of the J-UCAS program at DARPA.
An unmanned aircraft also has the potential for greater survivability because it can withstand higher G forces and have a smaller radar cross section without a cockpit, he explained.
The unmanned craft is expected to fly at about Mach.8, at altitudes up to 35,000 feet with at least a 1,300-nautical mile combat radius and a 4,500-pound payload.
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