Airbus U.S. and Parry Labs partner on MQ-72C Aerial Logistics Connector programme

As part of the agreement, Parry Labs will provide its commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) edge software platform, Stratia, which integrates commercial aviation standards with advanced autonomy and mission capabilities. The company will also supply edge computer hardware and a scalable ground control station compatible with devices such as the Marine Air Ground Tablet (MAGTAB).

“We are excited to partner with Parry Labs as part of our Aerial Logistics Connector team,” said Robert Geckle, Chairman and CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense. “Parry’s proven digital system integration expertise – specifically UAS command and control interfaces – will help ensure the MQ-72C will be able to conduct unmanned operations in austere environments and redefine how the Marine Corps counters the threats of tomorrow.”

The partnership is intended to enhance missionisation capabilities over several years, supporting more advanced autonomous flight across the Marine Corps and the wider Joint Force. The effort will also contribute to the development of systems capable of performing in complex and distributed operational environments.

“We are able to bring modern mission system capabilities in a simple unified data and systems environment to programs like ALC,” said JD Parkes, Parry Labs’ Chief Executive Officer. The collaboration highlights the companies’ shared commitment to delivering agile and scalable digital infrastructure for defence applications.

Airbus U.S. is currently in the second year of the Aerial Logistics Connector programme, which follows the Middle Tier of Acquisition – Rapid Prototyping pathway. The initiative seeks to deliver aircraft prototypes for operational demonstrations and experiments, providing the warfighter with practical capability assessments.

The ALC effort is one of several initiatives across the U.S. Department of Defense focused on improving logistics support in contested or distributed environments. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure readiness and operational superiority in peer or near-peer conflict scenarios.