Boeing Acquires Robotic Aircraft Tech Company, Aurora Flight Sciences

Boeing has acquired an autonomous systems technologies provider, Aurora Flight Sciences under an agreement signed by the companies.

"The combined strength and innovation of our teams will advance the development of autonomy for our commercial and military systems," said Greg Hyslop, chief technology officer and senior vice president of Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology. "Together, these talented teams will open new markets with transformational technologies".

According to the company press release, terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The signed agreement is anticipated to close following receipt of customary regulatory approvals.

Aurora will be a subsidiary under Boeing Engineering, Test & Technology known as Aurora Flight Sciences, A Boeing Company. It will retain an independent operating model while benefiting from Boeing's resources and position as the leading provider of aerospace products and services, the release states.

"Since its inception, Aurora has been focused on the development of innovative aircraft that leverage autonomy to make aircraft smarter," said John Langford, Aurora founder and chief executive officer. "As an integral part of Boeing, our pioneered technologies of long-endurance aircraft, robotic co-pilots, and autonomous electric VTOLs will be transitioned into world-class products for the global infrastructure".

Aurora specializes in autonomous systems technologies to enable advanced robotic aircraft for future aerospace applications and vehicles.