During these latest trials, Boeing deployed four fixed-wing Albatross Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), which were coordinated to detect and disrupt a radio frequency signal from a simulated enemy target. Each UAV was outfitted with advanced mission systems, employing multispectral machine vision and innovative search algorithms to dynamically respond to environmental changes and coordinate with other UAVs in the team.
We’ve completed a second phase of Autonomous Systems Flight Trials in the UK.
These trials showcased the capability of this autonomous system and how it could enhance future military operations. pic.twitter.com/2L3r8o3ghp
— Boeing UK & Ireland (@BoeingUK) July 19, 2024
Steve Burnell, managing director of Boeing Defence UK, highlighted the progress made: “The latest demonstration builds on the success of the first series of autonomous flight trials that took place last year, where our UK team used an adaptable Boeing autonomy software framework to build intelligent behaviours deployable on multiple platforms. As defence forces move towards greater adoption of autonomous and AI technologies, this innovative test programme could be the cornerstone of future autonomous collaborative platforms in the UK.”
Phase two of the trials introduced new capabilities, including enhanced autonomous platform-to-platform teaming. This technology allows the UAVs to target positions from greater distances and cover more ground with higher confidence in identifying and locating targets. The trials were conducted with support from Phantom Works Global and the University of Manchester.
The successful demonstration of trusted autonomous behaviours in these trials has the potential to be integrated with Boeing’s existing family of mature autonomous systems. It builds on a series of global trials, including a UK-hosted AUKUS trial and other UK-based trials conducted last year. The development of low-cost and attritable ALEs, which can operate alongside manned platforms, is expected to significantly enhance military capability and serve as a force multiplier on the battlefield.
