Monday, May 3, 2010

Northrop, Bell unveil new UAV

Northrop Grumman and Bell Helicopter have unveiled a new unmanned helicopter, Fire-X, based on the four-blade, single engine Bell 407. The new drone borrows many of the systems that are used in the successful Fire Scout. The new UAV will be able to keep tabs on adversaries for longer periods of time and deliver more cargo to more remote locations. The first flight of Fire-X is expected by the end of 2010. The new aircraft represents Northrop Grumman's entry in an anticipated U.S. Navy competition in 2011 to demonstrate a new medium-range unmanned system. (Source: Northrop Grumman, 05/03/10) Gulf Coast note: Northrop's Fire Scout is built in part in Moss Point, Miss.