AN ANALYSIS OF THE OPERATIONAL INTEGRATION OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGY WITH HYBRID AIRCRAFT
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Authors
Jennings, Andrew
Subjects
hybrid aircraft
carbon
high energy laser
HAV
energy
drones
hydrogen
carbon
high energy laser
HAV
energy
drones
hydrogen
Advisors
Dew, Nicholas
Van Bossuyt, Douglas L.
Date of Issue
2024-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
Prior NPS theses have explored the viability of hybrid aircraft (e.g., the HAV Airlander 10) in a variety of mission sets within the DOD. ISR, ASW, and HADR missions have been explored, with ISR roles currently viewed as some of the most promising based on extant research. This thesis evaluates the feasibility of integrating a high energy laser into an ISR-focused hybrid aircraft as an expansion of the capability beyond what has previously been considered; results indicate that this integration could be feasible. The viability of hybrid aircraft acting as motherships for small fleets of drones performing HADR and base defense missions is also examined; results for this analysis indicate that hybrid aircraft can serve this role well. Finally, this thesis expands upon previous research regarding the challenges associated with fielding hybrid aircraft in a military setting, as well as the feasibility of converting traditional diesel-powered hybrid aircraft to hydrogen power in order to reduce carbon emissions. The findings from this analysis indicate that the conversion to hydrogen power is possible while maintaining a majority of the payload capability and all of the defined endurance.
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Thesis
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NPS Naval Research Program
This project was funded in part by the NPS Naval Research Program.
This project was funded in part by the NPS Naval Research Program.
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.