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Airbus and Shield AI have celebrated their first autonomous helicopter test flight using the Hivemind autonomy package.
Both companies conducted the test flight in Grand Prairie, Texas, using an H145 helicopter integrated with an MQ-72C logistics connector and Airbus’ Helionix flight system as part of the US Marine Corps Aerial Logistics Connector program.
Integration of Hivemind into the aircraft was completed in under two months and during the test, the H145 flew under the direct control of Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy software, in collaboration with Airbus’ Helionix.
The integrated software served as the mission system control of the aircraft, performing an auto take-off, landing and other test points to illustrate the software’s ability to direct the aircraft without pilot input.
“This flight test is a testament to the strength of our ALC team and opens the aperture on new mission possibilities to support the Marine Corps,” Airbus US Space and Defense chief executive officer and chairman Rob Geckle said.
“We are bringing together the best across industry to deliver an aircraft that changes how unmanned operations can support missions across a wide range of logistics.”
The MQ-72C Logistics Connector is currently being developed as an unmanned variant of the UH-72 Lakota.
The incorporation of Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy software expands the platform’s mission capabilities through autonomy-enabled operations across a wide range of logistics and operational scenarios.
“This flight marks an important validation of our approach to mission autonomy,” Shield AI chief executive officer Gary Steele said.
“Hivemind was built to enable adaptable, intelligent flight across a wide range of aircraft, and this milestone shows how quickly capable teams can leverage that foundation.
“The collaboration with Airbus is focused, professional and effective – an excellent example of what can be achieved when both teams are aligned on mission and execution. We’re excited to build on this momentum in the flights to come.”
The MQ-72C’s level of autonomy will be scaled during more test activities and demonstrations, with an expected goal leading to unmanned operations in contested logistics environments.
In May 2024, Naval Air Systems Command awarded Airbus US Space & Defense a phase one Other Transaction Authority through the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium, based on its unmanned UH-72 Logistics Connector concept, a variant of the UH-72 Lakota platform.
