The MQ-4C Triton maritime patrol UAV has begun its operational assessment.
The unmanned aircraft will undergo two months of tests at the Navy’s Patuxent River test site, including six flights and various operational test scenarios, according to a Navy announcement. The assessment is part of the Milestone C review, which signals the end of engineering development and the beginning of the acquisition stage.
“These set scenarios will demonstrate Triton’s collection of data in support of fleet customers while exercising each of the system’s mission areas − intelligence, surface warfare, amphibious warfare and missions of state,” the Navy said.
The decision on Milestone C is scheduled for early 2016, followed by low-rate initial production. The Navy plans to order 68 Tritons, with initial operating capability in 2017.
