A solar-powered drone with a 236-foot wingspan, originally the record-setting Solar Impulse 2, set a new endurance record with an 8-day flight before crashing during US Navy exercises. The aircraft, modified by Skydweller Aero for military use, was testing maritime patrol capabilities with radar and imaging systems. The incident occurred during the Navy's FLEX 2026 exercises focused on AI and drone technologies for combating organized crime.
Background
Solar Impulse 2 was the first solar-powered aircraft to complete a circumnavigation of the globe in 2016, demonstrating the potential of renewable energy in aviation. The aircraft was later acquired by Skydweller Aero and repurposed for military applications, particularly in long-endurance surveillance missions.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 14, 2026 at 05:48 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10