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The Lockheed Martin X-44A is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator built by the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.

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X-44A
Role	High-altitude endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology demonstrator Type of aircraft
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin
First flight	2001

Development

After the 1999 cancellation of the RQ-3 Darkstar, Lockheed Martin decided to build a technology demonstrator for a potential family of flying wing UAVs that could be used for combat and non-combat roles. The resulting X-44A (although apparently unrelated to the previously developed X-44 MANTA) was built in 1999 and first flew in 2001, representing an interim design between the Darkstar and P-175. However, Lockheed Martin kept the X-44A under wraps until February 2018.[1][2]

Design

The X-44A is reportedly made from nano-carbon fiber and is powered by a Williams F122 turbofan engine. The wingspan of the X-44A is 30 feet (9.1 m), half of that of the RQ-170 Sentinel.[3]

Display

The X-44A is currently on display at the National Museum of the US Air Force, near Dayton, Ohio, in the Research and Development gallery housed in Building 4.[4]

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

• Lockheed Martin RQ-170 Sentinel
• Lockheed Martin RQ-3 Dark Star
• Lockheed Martin P-175 Polecat

Related lists

• List of unmanned aerial vehicles
• List of military aircraft of the United States

References

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