“By
better understanding ship operations, we will have a smoother transition
into operational test,” said Capt. Jeff Dodge, Fire Scout program
manager. “This exercise gives us insight into operating from an
air-capable ship and will help us mitigate any risk associated with
the system.”
During this underway period, the Fire Scout completed three flights
and 32 takeoffs and recoveries. The data collected during these test
events helped the team assess the system's performance at different
combinations of wind and ship motion and get a better understanding
of how the aircraft behaved around the ship, he said.
"This system has the potential to enhance the fleet's ability to
conduct airborne-over the horizon searches and targeting that would
expand a myriad of missions, while maintaining a conceivably small support
element,” said Cmdr. Darren Dugan, commanding officer for DDG
109. “I'm excited to be part of this testing and evaluation period
for the MQ-8C."
The MQ-8C Fire Scout is an upgrade to the existing “B” variant,
which first deployed in 2009. With its larger airframe, the “C”
can fly nearly twice as long and carry three times more payload than
its predecessor.
The MQ-8C team is leveraging lessons learned from MQ-8B operations.
The “B” variant has routinely flown from frigates and most
recently from the littoral combat ship (LCS).
Since most of the MQ-8Cs components are identical to the “B”
variant, the team has high confidence that it will operate effectively
from the ship, Dodge said. The system performed “very well”
during the yearlong ground-based tests in Point Mugu, California so
he anticipates seamless integration with Dunham this week.
Teamed with the manned MH-60 helicopter, the MQ-8 Fire Scout extends
the range and endurance of ship-based operations. It provides unique
situational awareness and precision target support for the Navy.
In addition to 30 MQ-8Bs that have been delivered by Northrop Grumman,
the Navy plans to procure a total of 40 MQ-8Cs to support LCS and other
air-capable ships. |
