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, multi-engine aircraft operations.
The study aims to reduce pilot requirements and enhance short to medium-range logistics for cargo and refueling without manufacturing new aircraft.
Reliable Robotics' Remotely Operated Aircraft System (ROAS) enables continuous autopilot engagement through all flight phases, supervised by a remote pilot.
Findings indicate existing airframes can be upgraded with modest adjustments, achieving high reliability and operational efficiency comparable to commercial standards for cost-effective flexibility and safety.

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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.