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Northrop Grumman DARPA Tern Demonstrator

Northrop Grumman · Shipboard VTOL UAV Demonstrator · USA · Digital Age (2010–present)

Northrop Grumman DARPA Tern Demonstrator — Shipboard VTOL UAV Demonstrator
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Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN), a joint program between DARPA and the U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR), seeks to greatly increase the effectiveness of forward-deployed small-deck ships such as destroyers and frigates by enabling them to serve as mobile launch and recovery sites for specially designed unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These vehicles are to carry 600 pounds (270 kg) of ordnance in order to conduct combat strikes.

Specifications

Category
Fixed Wing
Sub-Category
UAV
Domain
Defence
Era
Digital Age (2010–present)
Country
USA
Manufacturer
Northrop Grumman
Operator
DARPA / US Navy
Primary Role
Shipboard VTOL UAV Demonstrator
Status
Retired
Service Entry
2017
Produced
1
Propulsion
Turboprop
Engine
Turboprop
Thrust / Power
1,200 shp (estimated)
Launch
Ground
Length (ft)
18
Wingspan (ft)
18.5
MTOW (lb)
4000
Endurance (hr)
3
Service Ceiling (ft)
20000
Range (mi)
600
Max Speed (mph)
200