First operational MQ-4C Triton drone delivered to Navy

edpop · by **edpop** » 13 Nov 2017, 22:52

https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2017/1 ... 510588117/

neptune · by **neptune** » 14 Nov 2017, 01:12

edpop wrote:https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2017/11/13/First-operational-MQ-4C-Triton-drone-delivered-to-US-Navy/1691510588117/

When the GH Block 30 are retired perhaps they can be upgraded as the LR a/a tankers for the MQ-4C, there by extending the Trition "on-station" durations.

popcorn · by **popcorn** » 14 Nov 2017, 01:49

OR... just buy more Stingrays.

neptune · by **neptune** » 14 Nov 2017, 04:07

popcorn wrote:OR... just buy more Stingrays.

....except for that cat and trap thingee and ....the Triton will be a long way from home (5,700mi.); unless the AF will allow a tent or two at Guam, etc.

...or a P-8 in the Triton control "might??" bring along a couple of plumbed up "existing aerial refueling stores" to "Top Off" a Triton for an extended stay (30+hrs)!!

popcorn · by **popcorn** » 14 Nov 2017, 05:08

No reason I can see why Stingray can't operate from land bases. Repurposing GH Blk 30 for BACN might be more feasible. I just have a feeling that converting them to tanker duty will be a big pain. Triton had to undergo some serious strengthening over vanilla GH. GH has a max fuel capacity of around 15,000lbs which matches up quite nicely with the Stingray specs.Also, building more Stingrays should result in lower PUC.