US Air Force tests the use of autonomous flying capabilities in austere, contested scenarios
An uncrewed Cessna 208B Grand Caravan departs to deliver cargo (Photo: US Air Force/ Matthew Clouse)
Technologies to remotely control aeroplanes were demonstrated in logistics missions during the AGILE FLAG 24-3 exercise.
The US Air Force (USAF) has recently tested using autonomous flying capabilities to perform logistics missions in austere, contested scenarios. Conducted during the AGILE FLAG 24-3 exercise at Mojave Air and Space Port, California, the trials involved technologies supplied by Joby and Reliable Robotics.
As part of the Autonomy Prime programme, the systems were used to remotely control a loaded Cessna 208B Grand Caravan during taxi, take off, flying and landing.
The aircraft flew for nearly 2,000km (1,150m) between military bases and airports, delivering 5,500 kg (1,200 pounds) of cargo including parts and supplies.
Speaking to Shephard, Maj.
Access this article and other Decisive Edge Newsletter news content with a free basic account
Create account
You will also get one free Premium News article each week
Already have an account? Log in
More from Decisive Edge Newsletter
-
![China unveils new military kit and demonstrates technological prowess]()
China unveils new military kit and demonstrates technological prowess
From the J-35A twin-engine fighter and the CH-7 stealth surveillance platform, to the Smart-configuration Support UAV and JARI-USV-A unmanned surface vessel, China has been showcasing its ability to project military power through recent technological innovations.
-
![I/ITSEC 2024: Babcock Immersive Training Experience debuts in US]()
I/ITSEC 2024: Babcock Immersive Training Experience debuts in US
Named BITE, the system simulates the battlefield environment with multiple sensorial stimuli.
-
![What Saudi Arabia’s GCAP involvement could mean for the UK]()
What Saudi Arabia’s GCAP involvement could mean for the UK
Analysts have said that making space for the country in the sixth-gen fighter aircraft initiative could give the UK a chance to ease the financial burden of the aircraft’s development.
-
![Rheinmetall locks in $950 million purchase of US company to strengthen position]()
Rheinmetall locks in $950 million purchase of US company to strengthen position
Rheinmetall is working to open up the US market and the potential billions of dollars on offer. In order to get in the door it has purchased engineering company Loc Performance Products.
-
![I/ITSEC 2024: US Army and University of Southern California to develop portable ship simulator]()
I/ITSEC 2024: US Army and University of Southern California to develop portable ship simulator
The solution will enable training soldiers for multi-domain operations.
-
![Romania signs for 1,059 Otokar Cobra II vehicles]()
Romania signs for 1,059 Otokar Cobra II vehicles
The deal was signed after Otokar became the last bidder standing. The first 278 vehicles will be manufactured in Turkey and the rest built in Romania.
