Milestone Reported in Air Force Automation Feasibility Study

Reliable Robotics was contracted earlier this year to explore the feasibility of automating operations of large, multiengine jets, such as the KC-135 Stratotanker.

Kimberly Johnson

Friday, October 06, 2023 at 12:09 PM ET

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In February, the Mountain View, California-based aircraft automation firm was contracted by the U.S. Air Force to explore the feasibility of automating large, multiengine jets, such as the KC-135 Stratotanker refueler. [Courtesy: Reliable Robotics]

Key Takeaways:

Reliable Robotics has achieved a key milestone in its U.S. Air Force study investigating the automation of large, multiengine aircraft like the KC-135 Stratotanker to reduce pilot requirements.
The study confirmed that existing airframes can accommodate Reliable Robotics' Remotely Operated Aircraft System (ROAS) with modest adjustments, enabling continuous autopilot engagement through all flight phases under remote pilot supervision.
Key findings indicate that ROAS can achieve FAA-level reliability on large airframes, enhance operational efficiency and flexibility for military logistics, and provide a cost-effective solution without manufacturing new aircraft.

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A study underway investigating the automation of Air Force aircraft operations as a means of reducing pilot requirements has achieved a key milestone, according to Reliable Robotics.