The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has applauded Skydweller Aero, a company based in Oklahoma City, for successfully carrying out a three-day unmanned flight powered entirely by solar energy, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy.

Over the course of 74 hours above the Gulf of Mexico, the solar-electric aircraft remained aloft without using fuel. The mission aimed to showcase the technologies’ capability for long endurance operations—such as extended maritime surveillance, vessel tracking, and intelligence gathering.

According to ODAA, the flight marks a significant step forward in autonomous aviation. Though human oversight was maintained, the aircraft operated autonomously and successfully transferred onboard imagery and sensor data during its mission. The design goal, the agency noted, is for future flights to remain airborne for up to 90 days—a capability that could transform applications in defense, humanitarian aid, and maritime security.

RuthAnne Darling, director of the Department of Defense’s Operational Energy Innovation Office, commented that this was the first time Skydweller’s solar-electric platform completed a full cycle of daylight and darkness in real conditions. She said it demonstrates that energy budgets can close in real operations—not just in theoretical models. Darling added that demonstrations such as this help move promising tech toward operational deployment, extending reach and persistence for missions.

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-5) also expressed support, calling the flight a “groundbreaking milestone” and highlighting the role of the company’s Navy partnership in strengthening national defense.

Skydweller Aero has worked with U.S. military agencies since 2020, focusing on challenges like maritime security, border awareness, illegal fishing, and drug trafficking. The company plans further flights in regions such as the U.S. Southern Command area and along the Southern U.S. border to expand its operational footprint.