Thermal mechanical breaker systems to support MQ-25 unmanned tanker
NewsFebruary 19, 2021
EAST AURORA, N.Y. Astronics Corporation, provider of technologies for global aerospace, defense, and other mission critical industries, has won contracts by Boeing to supply CorePower aircraft power distribution units and custom-engineered exterior lighting for the MQ-25 unmanned aerial refueling program.
According to the company, the CorePower system is intended to replace pilot-operated, thermal mechanical breaker systems with intelligently controlled, solid-state switches to provide safe, reliable performance remotely.
The system planned for the MQ-25 incorporates the use of Astronics’ latest generation Electronic Circuit Breaker Unit (ECBU) products to create an evenly distributed system with less wire weight and increased reliability compared with traditional systems. Astronics is also currently working with Boeing to design custom lighting for the MQ-25 to provide for safe operations for flight deck personnel and aid in the aerial refueling process.
The MQ-25 is the U.S. Navy’s first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft and is designed to provide a much-needed refueling capability. The contract supports Boeing’s engineering and manufacturing development program.
