On August 28, 2024, Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing company, achieved a milestone by conducting a seven-hour test flight with the SKIRON-XLE drone powered by a hydrogen fuel cell in Virginia. This flight marked a significant advancement in flight endurance for Group 2 drones. The SKIRON-XLE, part of Boeing's unmanned aerial system lineup, combines electric vertical takeoff and landing capabilities with fixed-wing horizontal flight, boasting a 3.5-hour flight endurance. Equipped with two five-liter hydrogen tanks, an Intelligent Energy fuel cell, and advanced camera systems, the drone successfully completed its mission while complying with FAA Part 107 standards. Jason Grzywna, Senior Director of Products at Aurora Flight Sciences, highlighted the drone's extended flight durations and ease of use, positioning it as a pioneer in advanced flight technologies. The SKIRON-XLE, tailored for long-range reconnaissance, offers versatility through payload mounting locations and custom payload integration. Its ground control station, featuring cutting-edge software and communication technology, supports operational ranges of up to 75 km. Additionally, the drone's hybrid VTOL and fixed-wing design enables efficient mission planning and execution, making it ideal for various applications. From ISR missions to firefighting support and extended communication capabilities, the SKIRON-XLE proves its adaptability and reliability in diverse operational scenarios. Overall, Boeing's SKIRON-XLE drone represents a leap forward in drone technology, showcasing innovation, performance, and versatility for a wide range of industries and missions.