Boeing, Tactical Robotics partner to explore development of ducted fan propulsion technology

January 22, 2020 | AUVSI News

Boeing has signed an agreement with Urban Aeronautics’ subsidiary Tactical Robotics to explore the development of a ducted fan propulsion technology, which could potentially be used for piloted and autonomous light aircraft.

The companies will use a joint working group to determine what opportunities may exist for the development, production and marketing of Fancraft–based vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) products such as Tactical Robotics’ Cormorant.

Thanks to its compact, Humvee-sized footprint, Cormorant is capable of conducting emergency response missions such as delivering food, water and supplies during natural disasters or in combat environments. The vehicle can also carry up to four patients for medical evacuations.

“Cormorant represents the first in a family of vertical takeoff and landing aircraft that can fly and land where no other aircraft can,” explains Rafi Yoeli, CEO of Urban Aeronautics.

“We can think of no better partner than Boeing to help us develop this product and utilize the Fancraft technology to its full potential.”

To produce thrust, aviation ducted fan technology uses a fan mounted in a cylindrical duct. Compared to an open rotor, this arrangement can efficiently enhance airflow velocity and pressure, according to Boeing. The company notes that compared to unshielded blades on traditional rotorcraft, aviation ducted fan technology offers notional safety advantages.

Additionally, Fancraft technology improves stability, payload, speed and endurance in comparison to conventional ducted fan configurations.