Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing Company, has introduced the SKIRON-XLE, a long-endurance variant of its SKIRON Expeditionary small UAS product line, powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. The SKIRON-XLE is specifically designed for long-range reconnaissance missions, with flight testing currently in progress to achieve flight times exceeding five hours. This new addition to the SKIRON product line offers the convenience of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) along with the extended endurance of a fixed-wing design. The aircraft is equipped with high-resolution EO/IR payloads from Trillium Engineering, with options for custom payload integration and additional payload mounts. The SKIRON-XLE weighs 54 pounds with the fuel cell system and features a ruggedized ground control station utilizing Kutta Technologies’ Unified Ground Control Station (UGCS) software. The UGCS-Defense version employed by Aurora meets international STANAG 4586 and US Army Interoperability standards, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Aurora Flight Sciences' VP of aircraft and product development, Larry Wirsing, expressed enthusiasm for the SKIRON-XLE, highlighting its ability to offer maximum flight endurance and range. The UAS system's long-range capabilities are enhanced by a 2.4G 10W radio and tracking antenna, providing a command and control link range of up to 75 km. The SKIRON-XLE system is designed with a Modular Open Systems Approach, allowing for flexibility and interoperability. Manufactured in Manassas, Virginia, the SKIRON-X and SKIRON-XLE systems are easy to set up, offering autonomous launch, flight, and landing capabilities. Aurora Flight Sciences aims to provide the U.S. military and other customers with a reliable solution for long-range reconnaissance missions. For more information about the SKIRON-XLE and Aurora Flight Sciences, visit their website.