The KillerBee fourth generation Unmanned Aircraft System (KBUAS) flew for the first time today at Yuma Proving Grounds (YPG) in Yuma Arizona.

Developed by Swift Engineering of San Clemente, CA , the all new KB4 unmanned aircraft (KB4 UA) flew for 70 minutes and became the latest success story in the company’s family of blended wing UAS.

“The air vehicle surpassed our expectations in performance and handling” said Mark Page, Chief Scientist at Swift Engineering. “The data captured in the Swift Wind tunnel was right on target. Our testing left nothing to chance and allowed us to optimize the flying characteristics and responsiveness of the UAS.”

The KB4 pushes the envelope in UAS design, incorporating lessons learned during the development of earlier models of the KillerBee. With a 10 foot wingspan and a gross weight of 136 pounds, the KB4 can carry 30 pounds of payload for up to 15 hours or, with its easily reconfigurable fuel tanks, the UAS can simultaneously carry multiple payloads weighing as much as 66 pounds.

“The airframe has taken the best of what we have learned from the past four years of development and improved manufacturability” said Larry Reding KB Program Manager. Outer wings, engine package and systems have all been redesigned for quick removal and replacement as Line Replaceable Units (LRU). The wing tips have been significantly increased in length giving the air vehicle improved yaw stability and ample space for antennas.

The next KBUAS flights are scheduled for early May at YPG. The upcoming series of flights will further test and validate the complete system including the new, expeditionary, all-in-one supply-trailer/launcher and enhanced net recovery system.

For more information on the KillerBee family of UAS contact Larry Reding or Jan Refsdal of Swift Engineering at (949) 492-6608 or see www.swiftengineering.com