The U.S. Navy's Ion Tiger flew over the Aberdeen Proving Ground on November 16 and November 17 for more than one day, as the 37-lb. aircraft carried its fuel-cell engine, 9.5-lb. compressed hydrogen tank, and a five-pound payload.

Ion Tiger has a a day-night camera capable of surveillance and reconnaissance for future missions, said representatives from the Naval Research Laboratory.  The recent test flight was meant as an endurance test, and researchers were quick to point out that much work is left to be done.

As the use of UAVs continues to increase in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan, military officials are interested in creating greener UAVs that are able to fly for longer durations.  Using a light, powerful engine, the Ion Tiger is quieter and has a lower heat signature than traditional internal combustion engines.

UAVs are being used to patrol the Somali coast to help deter pirate attacks on commercial ships, while U.S. military officials expressed interest in also using them to help re-supply ground troops in remote areas of Afghanistan.