The Phantom Ray robot Stealth combat jet intends to place the US army ahead of the other nations, where trials of said jet are slated to begin. Currently, the machine will be flown to the military test centre based in California, mounted atop one of NASA’s space-shuttle-carrying jumbo jets. The Phantom Ray looks set to go head-to-head against its rival from Northrop with their X-47, as well as the Avenger from General Atomics. This robot jet will first undergo high-speed taxiing tests and then a first flight in 2011. The Phantom Ray will be smart enough to fly the planned route, deliver its payload and head back, with the additional ability of basic defense movements just in case there is enemy fire from the ground or in the air, all with little instructions from its human masters.