Boeing, U.S. Navy use Growler as mission controller for two unmanned Growlers

February 5, 2020 | AUVSI News

Boeing and the U.S. Navy successfully flew two autonomously controlled EA-18G Growlers as UAS, and used a third Growler as a mission controller for the other two.

Conducted during the Navy Warfare Development Command’s annual fleet experiment (FLEX) exercises, the flights, which took place at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, “proved the effectiveness of technology” allowing F/A-18 Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers to perform combat missions with unmanned systems, according to Boeing. 

“This demonstration allows Boeing and the Navy the opportunity to analyze the data collected and decide where to make investments in future technologies,” says Tom Brandt, Boeing Manned-UnManned Teaming demonstration lead.

“It could provide synergy with other U.S. Navy unmanned systems in development across the spectrum and in other services.”

A total of 21 demonstration missions were completed over the course of four flights.

“This technology allows the Navy to extend the reach of sensors while keeping manned aircraft out of harm’s way,” Brandt continues.

“It’s a force multiplier that enables a single aircrew to control multiple aircraft without greatly increasing workload. It has the potential to increase survivability as well as situational awareness.”