Autonomous aviation, test stands and solid rocket motors

In this edition of Linked into AFRL:

• AFWERX Prime is pushing the envelope on commercial technologies that enhance last mile logistics for future combat operations.
• Explore test stands, chambers, and facilities that helped deliver ground-breaking rocket technology and position AFRL to support the United States' continued dominance in space from Nils Sedano, Liquid Engines Technical Advisor in the next AFRL Unveiled video.
• AFRL's Rocket Propulsion Division demonstrates the flight termination system of a solid rocket motor to validate modeling and simulation data comparing motor breakup data to real world data.
• Check out a brand-new opportunity for industry to participate in accelerating the future of on-orbit capabilities. Explore sam.gov and the call to learn more about the many ways to partner with AFRL to make a difference in our nation’s security and ability to fight and win.

Lastly check out our upcoming career fair and view the latest job postings AFRL has to learn how you can join the team.

Autonomous aviation reducing delays in aircraft maintenance

AFWERX Autonomy Prime partners Joby and Reliable Robotics demonstrated how autonomous aviation can contribute to the Agile Combat Employment concept by flying daily autonomous logistics missions during the Air Force exercise AGILE FLAG 24-3 at Mojave Air and Space Port, California, Aug. 5-9, 2024.

During AGILE FLAG, the 23rd Wing from Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, and the 9th Reconnaissance Wing from Beale Air Force Base, California, tested their ability to generate combat air power while maneuvering and sustaining their forces in dynamic, contested environments across California and other locations in the western United States.

Both wings used Joby and Reliable Robotics' autonomous flight technology, which allows a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft to taxi, take off, fly to a destination and land independently to deliver cargo such as aircraft parts and supplies. The aircraft can fly roughly 1,150 miles with 1,200 pounds of cargo.

“Previously, we faced a tough choice: either use a cargo aircraft with all the associated expenses or forgo the flight altogether, which created difficult decisions for warfighting commanders,” said Col. Max Bremer, Air Mobility Command Special Access Program management officer. “The return on investment with this technology is significant. By using it to handle smaller cargo, we can preserve cargo aircraft for more critical tasks like transporting large parts, engines, or weapons. This not only enhances the overall capability of the cargo fleet but also ensures they are used where they are most needed.”

Along with time saved, the Cessnas are much cheaper to operate compared to traditional Air Force cargo aircraft. According to the Fiscal Year 2023 Defense Department cost report, the operating cost per hour for a C-130J Hercules is $7,671, and the operating cost per hour for a C-17A Globemaster III is $20,941 per hour. These figures encompass direct expenses such as fuel, maintenance, and crew costs, though actual costs can vary based on specific mission requirements and operational conditions.?

In comparison, the cost to operate an autonomous Cessna 208B Grand Caravan per hour is between $1,200 and $1,600, depending on the utilization.??

"These aircraft are saving the Air Force time and money by getting assets where they need to be in a shorter amount of time,” said Staff Sgt. Miguel Sarmiento, 633d Logistics Readiness Squadron aircraft parts store supervisor. “Looking ahead, if the Air Force adopts autonomous aircraft for asset transport in forward locations, it will increase sorties and flying hours by reducing delays in aircraft maintenance."?

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AFRL Detonation of Solid Rocket Motor

AFRL's Rocket Propulsion Division demonstrates the flight termination system of a solid rocket motor to validate modeling and simulation data comparing motor breakup data to real world data.

AFRL Unveiled: Rocket Test Stands

Go behind-the-scenes at our AFRL Rocket Lab with Nils Sedano, Liquid Engines Technical Advisor. We’ll explore the test stands, chambers and facilities which help deliver ground-breaking rocket technology and position AFRL to support the United States’ continued dominance in space.

We're hiring! This October 8-9th join us at a career fair in Dayton, Ohio. Potential jobs include: computer scientist, contracting specialist, data analyst, financial management specialist, physicists, engineer (aerospace/aeronautical, electrical, electronics, mechanical, computer, general), and business professional.

Submit your resume for a chance to be considered for a prescheduled interview. We will also accept resume submissions and walk-ins at the event.

Highlighted below are five in-demand jobs — click on a position to learn more and apply.

• Electrician | Rome, NY
• Business Efficiency Analyst | Albuquerque, NM
• Integrated Development Division Chief | Dayton, OH
• Vision Scientist | San Antonio, TX
• General Engineering, Technical Advisor and Integration Lead | Valparaiso, FL

Visit afresearchlab.com/careers to see career and internship opportunities around the world.

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