Representatives with Oregon Iron Works, Inc. told ANN Tuesday the defense systems provider recently completed a successful flight test of the Sea Scout unmanned seaplane in southeast Texas. The flight test included two completely autonomous water landings.

“Our research indicates this is the first time a seaplane has ever been auto-landed in the United States,” said Josh Pruzek, program manager for the Sea Scout. An onboard LADAR provided altitude and water surface data to the autopilot during the landing approach and touchdown. “Both landings were picture perfect — as good as they get,” said Pruzek.

Under development for nearly two years, the Sea Scout air vehicle is the result of a Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) sponsored Phase III Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract. The aircraft was flown at a gross weight of 300 lbs, and carried 25 pounds of ballast in order to simulate a payload. A 38-hp Wankel rotary engine powers the UAV.

Source and more information: aero-news