In a significant development for military aviation, Shield AI has successfully conducted an autonomous flight of the BQM-177A target drone using its advanced Hivemind artificial intelligence software. This achievement marks a pivotal advancement toward the U.S. Navy’s inaugural mission focused on beyond-visual-range autonomy on fast-moving platforms.
The test took place at Naval Air Station Point Mugu in California, where the demonstration highlighted key advancements in manned-unmanned teaming capabilities. This event not only showcased the performance of Hivemind but also underscored its versatility and potential applications across various aircraft types.
This initiative falls under the Experimental Platform for Intelligent Combat project, which aims to enhance the integration of autonomous systems within military operations. During the demonstration, the ability to seamlessly transfer control between onboard systems was validated, showcasing effective communication and coordination.
Furthermore, the integration of Hivemind with Kratos’ updated Advanced Vehicle Control Laws represents a significant step forward in military drone operations, expanding the functional envelope for unmanned systems in combat scenarios. This accomplishment indicates a move toward more sophisticated and autonomous military platforms, enhancing operational effectiveness and strategic capabilities in future engagements.
