2-in-1 aircraft Firebird could save US military money
(NEWSER) - Northrop Grumman’s latest aircraft isn’t just a drone—nor is it only designed for manned flight. The Firebird, set for unveiling today, can do both with just a few modifications, the Los Angeles Times reports. From 30,000 feet in the air, the spy plane can eavesdrop on phone chats, capture live video, and use radar. “Unmanned aircraft is taking on increasingly difficult missions. However, in the fog of war, there are still situations where you need a pilot's instinct inside the cockpit,” says an aerospace analyst. It’s not a military commission, but Northrop expects government interest. More»
