A solar-powered drone, developed by Skydweller Aero from the original Solar Impulse 2, crashed into the sea after achieving a record-breaking flight of eight days. The drone, which boasted a 236-foot (72-meter) wingspan similar to that of a Boeing 747, was designed for uncrewed missions and had the capacity to carry up to 800 pounds (363 kilograms) of payload. It was engaged in military exercises for the US Navy, specifically the Fleet Experimentation (FLEX) event, aimed at testing drone technologies for maritime patrols against organized crime. During its flight, the drone utilized radar and thermal imaging to monitor targets and served as a communications hub for Navy operations. Despite its innovative design and capabilities, the aircraft ultimately met its demise at sea.