Virtual machine to fly unmanned systems

Boeing has selected the Aonix PERC real-time embedded virtual machine (VM) for the Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems (J-UCAS) X-45C programme.

Boeing has selected the Aonix PERC real-time embedded virtual machine (VM) for the Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems (J-UCAS) X-45C programme.

The networking, security and portability of the Java language makes it a natural fit for large-scale networked applications such as J-UCAS.

PERC, a virtual machine delivering real-time deterministic capabilities, offers the reliability needed for Boeing's mission-critical software development.

The J-UCAS programme is a joint Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), US Air Force and Navy effort to demonstrate the technical feasibility, usefulness and operational value of networked unmanned combat vehicles.

J-UCAS will employ a common operating system, integrating the system components, which will provide the necessary software and services that enable system functionality, while minimising the impact of platform constraints.

High-performance unmanned air vehicles complete with intelligent weapon systems are being designed to suppress enemy air defenses, provide surveillance, and execute precision air strikes within the emerging global command and control architecture.

"A growing number of government and commercial integrators recognise the benefits of the Java language in meeting real-time embedded needs", noted Kelvin Nilsen, Aonix CTO and pioneer of embedded real-time Java technologies.

"Aonix has developed a solid reputation for helping customers successfully design, implement and maintain high-quality real-time Java applications".

"Boeing's selection of PERC shows confidence in Java and its capabilities in solving large-scale networked applications with demanding real-time needs".

PERC is a clean-room virtual machine expressly created for demanding embedded and real-time systems requiring J2SE support.

The Aonix PERC environment has the ability to support VxWorks 6.x, offers proven mission-critical reliability, and features the unique ability to guarantee compliance with real-time constraints".

Boeing began its unmanned combat aircraft programme in 1998.

The following year, DARPA and the US Air Force chose Boeing to build two X-45A air vehicles and a mission control station under DARPA's Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle Advanced Technology Demonstration Programme.

Since that time, two Boeing-built X-45As have flown 64 demonstrations at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Centre, Edwards Air Force Base, California.

Aonix is pleased to have been chosen as part of the long lead development for the X-45C models which is currently in progress.

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