Navy unmanned fighter

[Dr Mordrid]

The US Navy's getting ready to test the X47B recon/fighter on our supercarriers. Northrop says that the drone would not replace other manned Navy aircraft, but instead could be used in long missions where pilot fatigue is a factor and on missions into well-defended airspace. If you believe that I have this bridge.....

When extended the wing span is 62 feet. It will also be able to take off and land on carriers under full automation.

[MultimediaMan]

That right there is a Strike Aircraft - a 21st. century Intruder.

But this does lead to other interesting aircraft types: ASW Aircraft would be well-suited to Drone-style operational duties if for no other reason than to centralize ASW efforts in the CIC.