PATUXENT RIVER, Md. - Launch crew prepares a X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator for its first land-based catapult launch.
The Navy's first-ever steam catapult launch of the pilotless X-47B ensures the vehicle can structurally handle the rigors of the aircraft-carrier environment. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Northrop Grumman by Alan Radecki/Released)