New software on the Navy's MQ-4C Triton has passed its first flight test.

The software will enable the UAV to make early operational capability in early 2018, according to a Northrop Grumman news release.

The new software includes the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System, multi-aircraft control, and additional Multi-Function Active Sensor radar modes.

"The integration of this enhanced software suite expands Triton's operational maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting capabilities and moves it that much closer to qualification for operational missions in the pacific theater," said Doug Shaffer, Northrop Grumman's vice president of Triton programs. 

Michael Peck is a correspondent for Defense News and a columnist for the Center for European Policy Analysis. He holds an M.A. in political science from Rutgers University. Find him on X at @Mipeck1. His email is mikedefense1@gmail.com.

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