Anna Kummerlowe’s Post

The future is now. More unmanned aircraft prototypes or Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) are showing that the requirement for squadrons and wings of prohitively expensive and extremely complex manned aircraft is questionable. DARPA, USN, USAF, US Marines, Australian AF drone programs are validating the viability and utility of unmanned platforms. Clearly, manned aircraft should “quarterback” and lead waves of “loyal wingmen” on certain missions. In fact, this was the original concept for the operational employment of the F-35. In the future, AI guided, autonomous drones or CCAs will be employed more and more especially in high threat - high risk combat scenarios. Why risk a pilot or crew on an extremely high risk mission if a drone can accomplish the task? As more UAVs or UMVs are used in combat or service support roles like aerial refueling, Medevac, logistics movement, battlefield surveillance, etc, the need for more manned aircraft will diminish. With decreasing budgets, the military must wisely invest in future weapon acquisitions. #CCA #usaf #B1 #B2 #B21 #F35 #DoD #CBO #Acquisition #ACAT #GAO #Pentagon #UAV #Drone #UMV#usn #usmc #aviation

We're stoked to finally share one of the bleeding-edge projects we have been working on with the United States Department of Defense (DoD), specifically the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Naval Information Warfare Systems Command, Pacific (NIWC Pacific). Last year, we were approached by DIU to build a decentralized data backbone for distributing data across autonomous unmanned vehicles (UxVs) and ground control systems. In other words, they wanted to use HarperDB to build real-time drone-to-drone information-sharing networks to patrol vast areas of the ocean (in the air, on water, and underwater). After competing against 74 other submissions, HarperDB was selected to field-test a solution. With a solution built using HarperDB's core platform (yes, the one you can download and use today), we demonstrated HarperDB's ability to deliver telemetry and contact reports across a constellation of autonomous vehicles experiencing intermittent connectivity. This exercise showcased the next-generation capabilities of HarperDB as a Distributed Systems platform with deeply unified data, application, and streaming systems in one technology. We are proud of what we've achieved with the DoD and look forward to bringing these key innovations to commercial organizations developing autonomous systems. #HarperDB #IoT #DoD #DIU #AutonomousSystems #DataBackbone #Technology https://lnkd.in/gj85dw3a

Exciting advancements emerged from the recent exercises conducted by the three AUKUS nations, where they tested cutting-edge technologies, including software-defined acoustic modems, autonomous underwater and surface vessels, and low-cost unmanned surface vehicles. AUKUS nations also showcased a low-cost gondola for upper stratosphere operations and T-200 high-altitude balloons, providing resilient communications in denied environments. Amid these developments, Japanese officials were invited to observe the Jervis Bay exercises, fueling speculation that Japan may soon join AUKUS Pillar II for advanced defense technology projects. While currently an observer, Japan could potentially participate next year, further enhancing our collaborative capabilities. #AUKUS #Innovation #UnderwaterOperations #PacificStrategy #DefenseCollaboration #NavalPower #TheAUKUSAlliance

❔ How can allies develop a competitive advantage in an increasingly contested world?   🔦 The answer... Emerging Disruptive Technologies (EDTs)... These innovations have the potential to disrupt traditional warfare by denying enemy capabilities, protecting personnel and infrastructure, and fostering a robust defence industrial base in the era of dual use.   In this latest article, we discuss five of the most crucial EDTs being developed for the battlefield of tomorrow. Delve into the impact of these technologies, their market value, and their applications for defence and security.   Read it now: https://lnkd.in/e7d8TpNw   #DefenseInnovation #EmergingTech #MilitaryStrategy #DefenceInnovation #Defence #Defense #DefenceIndustry #EDTs #EmergingDisruptiveTechnologies #DefenceNews #DefenceSupplyChain #AI #Quantum #Drones #Space #AdvancedMaterials #DualUse

The Air Force has just released the first-ever video of the XQ-67 drone, a cutting-edge Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototype, in flight. This incredible milestone was made possible thanks to the unwavering support and innovative resources from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). In a 90-second clip, AFRL showcased the General Atomics XQ-67A’s inaugural flight, which took place in February at Gray Butte facility in Palmdale, California. This prototype is a part of AFRL’s Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program, aimed at testing advanced data-sharing technologies on autonomous drones. General Atomics has completed three successful test flights since February, laying the groundwork for a promising production and flight test program. The XQ-67A builds on the success of the XQ-58A Valkyrie and complements other AFRL efforts like the X-62 VISTA and F-16 VENOM. AFRL’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation is evident in the rapid development and deployment of these groundbreaking aircraft. These and similar efforts are ensuring the Air Force stays ahead in the realm of human-machine teaming and autonomous combat technologies. Read more about this exciting development in the full Air & Space Forces Magazine article: https://lnkd.in/emr8xVGX For scientists and engineers interested in learning more about becoming part of a team advancing the future of American air power, visit: www.afresearchlab.com. For those interested in joining the elite group of legal professionals that are providing a full range of legal services to the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, visit: https://lnkd.in/gjD7KHnQ Fly -- Fight -- Win #innovation #DAF #technology #USAF #airforcejag #afjag #afjagcorps #usafrecruiting #airforcerecruiting #jagcorps #jag #lawschool #lawyer #attorney #militarylife #lawstudent #AFRL

The Pentagon is advancing its AI capabilities with Alpha-1, a new portfolio of services designed to securely and sustainably implement AI technologies across the Department of Defense (DoD). Spearheaded by Navy Capt. Xavier Lugo of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office’s Task Force Lima, Alpha-1 provides essential scaffolding for AI development, including data labeling services, federated model catalogs, and testing and evaluation capabilities. It already supports key programs like the Navy’s Project Harbinger and the Coast Guard’s maritime object detection, facilitating a shift in focus towards model building and integration into weapon systems. Additionally, Alpha-1 is central to autonomy projects, including the Replicator initiative for AI-powered drones, by offering modeling, simulation capabilities, and ensuring data interoperability across the DoD. This initiative, backed by a recent $10 million funding approval from Congress, underscores the Pentagon's commitment to leveraging AI for defense, emphasizing collaboration and innovation across all branches of the military. #pentagon #ai #alpha1 #defense #technology #data #innovation #autonomy #drones #collaboration Source- https://lnkd.in/gii6EjyZ

Good recap on "Replicator" vs. China in Interesting Engineering. I see this program developing along two parallel pathways: Affordable Mass and Affordable Intelligent Mass. Both serve equally important missions. To use an analogy from my old life as a hockey player, we will need both finesse players and those willing to go in the corners and drop the gloves. We saw AeroVironment win the first tranche with their "switchblade." "Potential drones include Shield AI V-BAT drones, with major defense contractors like Northrop Grumman developing their own kinds. It is unclear if the delivered drones comprise any or all of these." https://lnkd.in/g6sesWWD

Our recent advances in robotics perception can now be used with Canine Defense Technologies new utility drone platform for autonomous counter UAS applications. Here's a sneak peak as to what our technology can see: https://lnkd.in/gVbMjWTc

Unveiled: AeroVironment’s Game-Changing Role in Defense Tech 🚀Big things are unfolding in the world of defense technology, and AeroVironment is at the heart of it. With the Pentagon's Replicator program moving forward, our Switchblade-600 drones are making waves, setting new benchmarks for military capabilities. 🫡This initiative aims to enhance U.S. military tech at an unprecedented pace, leveraging cutting-edge drone technology to address modern warfare's complex challenges. The Switchblade-600, known for its precision and adaptability, has been a game-changer. Now, as part of the Replicator program, it's set to redefine battlefield dynamics. 🪄This development is not just about advancing technology; it's about ensuring the U.S. military remains at the forefront of global defense. Our drones provide critical support, offering unmatched capabilities that meet the evolving needs of modern combat scenarios. From reconnaissance to precision strikes, the Switchblade-600 is designed to deliver results. 🧨At AeroVironment, we’re not just keeping up with the pace of innovation; we’re setting it. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible ensures that we stay ahead, ready to meet the demands of future conflicts with unmatched expertise and technology. 👊🏻Want to dive deeper into the details? Trust us, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next. The future of defense technology is here, and AeroVironment is leading the charge. #AeroVironment #DefenseInnovation #ReplicatorProgram #NextGenTech #MilitaryExcellence

How is AI being adopted in the US Defence sector?🤔 In November 2023, the US Department of Defence released its AI adoption strategy aimed at accelerating the integration of ethical and safe AI tools and services into existing infrastructure. According to the Deputy Defence Secretary, adopting AI capabilities will enable US forces to maintain a competitive edge by automating and enhancing their decision advantage on the battlefield, including: 1. Superior contextual awareness of battlespaces and surroundings. 2. Proactive force planning and allocation. 3. Fast, precise, and resilient attack paths. With the Pentagon planning to invest $1.8 billion in 2024 to support the delivery and adoption of AI-enabled services, start-ups are identifying and developing tools to fill gaps in existing capabilities and decision-making processes. A few companies operating in this domain include - 1. Anduril Industries: The company aims to transform the defence sector by integrating advanced AI capabilities into autonomous systems, powered by their advanced AI operating system, "Lattice OS". Their family of products includes a reusable autonomous rocket with twin turbojet engines, underwater autonomous vehicles for extensive ocean coverage, and rocket motors for defence and space launch systems. Last week, the US Army tasked Anduril Industries and Palantir Technologies to develop and manufacture the Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN) ground station system, the Army’s next-generation deep-sensing capability. 2. Saronic Technologies: The company focuses on building autonomous, unmanned surface vehicles for naval and maritime security. They have launched three Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) that enhance domain awareness in contested waters, transit long distances with increased payload capacity, and address urgent operational requirements. 3. Shield AI: The company is developing AI-powered military assets, including fighter pilots, drones, satellites, and submarines for defence operations. One of their offerings is Hivemind, an AI pilot designed to enable self-driving for aviation vehicles, allowing aircraft to operate without GPS, communications, or a remote pilot in mission-critical operations. They currently serve the SD SOC, US Air Force, US Marine Corps, and the US Navy. #artificalintelligence #defence #usarmedforces