Boeing has signed an agreement to acquire US-based autonomous systems technologies developer Aurora Flight Sciences for an undisclosed sum.

Following the completion of the deal, Aurora will function as a subsidiary of Boeing Engineering, Test and Technology, under the brand name of Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing Company.

The subsidiary is expected to follow an independent operating model and will benefit from Boeing's resources and position in the aerospace field.

The proposed deal is set to close after receiving customary regulatory approvals.

Boeing Engineering, Test and Technology chief technology officer and senior vice-president Greg Hyslop said: “The combined strength and innovation of our teams will advance the development of autonomy for our commercial and military systems.

“Together, these talented teams will open new markets with transformational technologies.”

"The combined strength and innovation of our teams will advance the development of autonomy for our commercial and military systems."

With the latest deal, Boeing also aims to accelerate the development of autonomy technology for innovative aerospace vehicles.

Using autonomous systems that feature perception, machine learning and advanced flight control systems, Aurora has so far designed, produced and flown more than 30 unmanned air vehicles.

Established in 1989, the company specialises in the development of electric propulsion for aircraft.

Aurora founder and CEO John Langford said: “Since its inception, Aurora has been focused on the development of innovative aircraft that leverage autonomy to make aircraft smarter.

“As an integral part of Boeing, our pioneered technologies of long-endurance aircraft, robotic co-pilots, and autonomous electric VTOLs will be transitioned into world-class products for the global infrastructure.”

Aurora currently employs more than 550 people and has operations in six US states.