Boeing

Boeing ScanEagle UAV Demonstrates Communications Relay Utilizing Harris' Secure Wireless Technology

ScanEagle, a long-endurance fully autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Boeing [NYSE:BA] and The Insitu Group, successfully demonstrated high-speed wireless communications relay during a recent flight at the Boeing Boardman test range.

Enabled by Harris Corporation's National Security Agency-approved Type 1 classified SecNet-11®Plus technology in ScanEagle's avionics bay, streaming video and voice-over IP communication was sent from a ground control station over a secure high-bandwidth network to ScanEagle 18 miles away. The data was then instantaneously relayed to ground personnel six miles from the UAV.

"This flight demonstrated the capability for troops on the ground to receive critical information and situational awareness in a secure environment" said Dave Martin, Boeing ScanEagle program manager. "ScanEagle and SecNet-11 together provide secure bandwidth and aerial relay endurance, key factors in creating a network centric battlefield."

Boeing received a contract from the U.S. Marine Corps in July to deploy two ScanEagle "mobile deployment units" for use with the First Marine Expeditionary Force in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Since ScanEagle was first deployed in Iraq this summer, the UAV has provided critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) information to tactical commanders.

ScanEagle recently surpassed 1,400 flight hours during operations in Iraq.

The Marines have relied heavily on the system due to its long-endurance capability, unique ISR value and ability to operate in a harsh weather environment.

Due to its unique launch and recovery systems, ScanEagle is unaffected by terrain and other conditions, eliminating the requirement for runways or prepared surfaces. ScanEagle is launched autonomously via a pneumatic wedge catapult launcher and flies pre-programmed or operator-initiated missions. It is retrieved using a "Skyhook" system in which the UAV catches a rope hanging from a 50-foot high pole. The patented system allows ScanEagle to operate in remote areas or aboard ships.

ScanEagle is four-feet long and has a 10-foot wingspan. For a vehicle of its size, ScanEagle's endurance/payload combination is unmatched. The ScanEagle "A-15" -- the current model -- can remain on station for more than 15 hours. Future planned variants will have an endurance of more than 30 hours.

ScanEagle is the first small tactical UAV with an inertially stabilized turret. As standard payload, ScanEagle carries either an electro-optical or an infrared camera. The gimbaled camera allows the operator to easily track both stationary and moving targets, providing real-time intelligence to users. Capable of flying above 16,000 feet, ScanEagle has also demonstrated the ability to provide persistent, low-altitude reconnaissance. Phantom Works, the advanced research and development unit and catalyst of innovation for the Boeing enterprise, is assisting in the development of ScanEagle. Through its Integrated Defense Advanced Systems group, it provides leading edge systems and technology solutions to Boeing Integrated Defense Systems, one the world's largest space and defense businesses.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $27 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems: the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense and Department of Homeland Security: NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in launch services.

The Insitu Group, located in Bingen, Wash., develops miniature robotic aircraft for commercial and military applications. Insitu, which introduced the first UAV to cross the Atlantic Ocean, developed its Seascan UAV to serve the commercial fishing industry for fish spotting, and has developed vehicles for other commercial applications. For more information about the company, see www.insitugroup.net.

Harris Corporation is an international communications technology company focused on providing assured communications products, systems and services for government and commercial customers. The company's four operating divisions serve markets for government communications, tactical radio, broadcast, microwave and network support systems. Harris provides systems and service to customers in more than 150 countries. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.

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For further information:
Chick Ramey
The Boeing Company
(206) 662-0949
charles.b.ramey@boeing.com
Steve Nordlund
The Insitu Group
(509) 493-8600
steve.nordlund@insitugroup.net
Sleighton Meyer
Harris Corporation
(321) 727-6415
smeyer@harris.com