The self-flying M*A*S*H air ambulance takes off

The medevac choppers made famous by M*A*S*H are set for a radical upgrade. An Israeli firm has carried out the first simulated mission using a self flying helicopter designed to fly casualties off the battlefield. The mission, for the Israel Defence Forces, saw an'injured' mannequin loaded onto the $14 million Cormorant UAV, and monitored remotely using sensors and a video link during the flight. The Cormorant has enough strength to carry 1,000 pounds per 30 miles, which means it can haul about 13,000 pounds in a full day. The craft flies itself using an array of laser altimeters, radars and sensors, and it is capable of reaching speeds of 100 knots (115 mph) and operate at altitudes of up to 18,000 feet.