As our nation’s adversaries develop new aircraft, the US Air Force needs new target-practice drones with the same capabilities as these vehicles. The Fifth-Generation Aerial Target program requires a fleet that balances qualities like high-maneuverability and low-visibility with a high-enough quantity for their needs, all while limiting costs.
HPCMP CREATE’s Kestrel software and computing capabilities were used to create a digital model of the aircraft, including engine function, high-Mach stability, takeoff and landing dynamics, and airworthiness. This work allows for faster prototyping and limits risk during the drone’s first flight tests.
Fifth-Generation Aerial Target Program
