Wolfpack Design – WP17217 – X-47B UCAS-D

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a U.S. X-47B UCAS-D (Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstrator).

The X-47B UCAS-D (Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstrator) was an experimental carrier-capable unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by Northrop Grumman for the United States Navy. As part of the UCAS-D program, its primary goal was to demonstrate the feasibility of an autonomous, stealthy drone capable of operating from an aircraft carrier, paving the way for future unmanned carrier-based strike and reconnaissance aircraft.

The X-47B featured a blended-wing-body design, resembling a smaller version of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. It was powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220U turbofan, providing subsonic flight performance. The drone was designed with low-observable (stealth) technology, an internal weapons bay, and advanced autonomous systems that allowed it to perform takeoffs, landings, and aerial refueling without direct human control. In 2013, it made history by successfully conducting the first autonomous arrested landing on an aircraft carrier (USS George H.W. Bush, CVN-77). Later, in 2015, it also completed an autonomous aerial refueling test, demonstrating the ability to refuel mid-flight from a tanker aircraft.

Although the X-47B did not enter production, the data and experience gained from the program contributed to the development of future carrier-based UAV programs, such as the MQ-25 Stingray, which will provide aerial refueling for the U.S. Navy. The X-47B proved that autonomous unmanned aircraft could operate in the complex and demanding environment of carrier aviation, marking a major step forward in the evolution of combat UAVs.

Premium re-pack by Wolfpack Design of Platz kit, consists of 62 Plastic parts (Platz), include 5 Resin Parts, PE (photo-etched) detail parts and decal sheet with two markings.