The Defense Advanced Projects Research Agency (DARPA) of the US Department of Defense and the Skorsky company came together in a joint study. Within the scope of the study, a first in the USA, it was reported that a Skorsky brand UH-60 Alpha model Black Hawk helicopter was flown without a pilot for the first time.
The first tests for the unmanned flying of helicopters were carried out in the joint program of Skorsky and DARPA, called the In-Cockpit Automation System.
Skorsky Innovation Director Igor Cherepinsky noted that the UH-60 Alfa Black Hawk helicopter performed two pilotless flights on February 5 and 7, at a press conference held in a virtual environment.
“FLY UNMANNED FOR 30 MINUTES”
Cherepinsky stated that there was a pilot in the helicopter just in case during the previous tests, “There is a key called 210 Switch in the helicopter. The number of people on the helicopter is entered here. We entered there as zero people. The helicopter flew unmanned over Fort Campbell in Kentucky for 30 minutes.” used the phrases.
Cherepinsky explained that the second flight was shorter.
Noting that the helicopter completed the pre-take-off checks and take-off process on its own, Cherepinsky noted that an environment as if flying among the skyscrapers of New York was depicted in a simulation to respond to the situations in heavy air traffic and complex areas.
Cherepinsky reported that the helicopter landed after flying safely between skyscrapers in Manhattan.
DARPA and Skorsky are expected to complete the $160 million project by the end of the year.
(AA)