WACO, Texas, April 22, 2026 — L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX), in partnership with Yulista, has delivered a next-generation flying laboratory to NASA five weeks ahead of schedule. The upgraded aircraft will provide Earth science data to global researchers.
The Boeing 777 underwent extensive structural modifications to accommodate advanced scientific instruments, 50-100 onboard operators and up to 18 flight hours at a maximum altitude of 43,000 feet to support NASA’s Airborne Science Program. The aircraft, based at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, will enable researchers to study atmospheric composition, ocean health, natural disasters and Earth’s interconnected systems from remote Arctic regions to tropical ecosystems.
“This platform represents a leap for NASA’s airborne science mission,” said Jason Lambert, President, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance, L3Harris. “The enhanced range, capacity and flexibility accelerate the pace of scientific discovery and help translate observations into actionable insights for policymakers, emergency responders and communities worldwide.”
L3Harris has applied advanced engineering techniques, including 3D scanning and specialized installation tooling, to enable the platform to host a wide range of scientific payloads. The research aircraft will become NASA’s largest platform for airborne science, carrying forward a legacy of discovery while offering new capabilities following the retirement of the NASA DC-8.
About L3Harris Technologies
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security. Visit L3Harris.com for more information.
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