Oct. 5 (UPI) — Boeing reports it will acquire Virginia-based Aurora Flight Sciences to accelerate the airplane manufacturer’s development of autonomous aerospace vehicles.
A news release Thursday did not disclose the terms of the transaction, but it noted that the takeover is still subject to regulatory approvals.
“The combined strength and innovation of our teams will advance the development of autonomy for our commercial and military systems,” said Greg Hyslop, chief technology officer and senior vice president of Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology. “Together, these talented teams will open new markets with transformational technologies.”
Aurora specializes in autonomous systems technologies for robotic aircraft. It has designed, produced and flown more than 30 unmanned aircraft since the company was founded in 1989.
Once acquired by Boeing, it will be a subsidiary under Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology and called “Aurora Flight Sciences, A Boeing Company.”
The company will keep its independent operating model.
“Since its inception, Aurora has been focused on the development of innovative aircraft that leverage autonomy to make aircraft smarter,” said John Langford, Aurora founder and chief executive officer. “As an integral part of Boeing, our pioneered technologies of long-endurance aircraft, robotic co-pilots, and autonomous electric VTOLs will be transitioned into world-class products for the global infrastructure.”
